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>>6072789

Oh fuck!

You pulled yourself up from the bathing barrel. How the hell had you fallen asleep and nearly dipped under the water? Were you really that tired and how long had you been asleep? The water was still quite warm. Taking a couple deep breaths and then leaning on the side of the barrel, you knew that maybe you should just wash yourself and then go to sleep.

Doing just that, you took the bar of soap and went to work. Having scrubbed yourself from head to toe, cleaned your ears and washed your hair properly, you stepped out of the barrel and dried yourself with one of the many towels left for that purpose.

Stretching your back and your arms, you inspected your reflection on the mirror. You have grown, gotten more adult, maybe a bit more handsome. The few scars from the wounds, a couple wrinkles from the stress. Fel green eyes. The glyphs written in Draconic on your chest to keep the Fel inside you in control.

You sighed and threw the towel away. Alright, just to put your clothes on for a few moments before you can jump into the bed and then some cozy nice sleep.

…

“Good morning Monica.” You greeted your friend, you had taken a seat downstairs and were waiting for breakfast to arrive. She was wearing her green dress, just like she always does.

“Good morning Alric.” She greeted you back and smiled. “Here is the tea you ordered.”

Placing the tray on the table, she poured one cup for you and another for Krix Wiklish, your goblin mechanic.

“Thank you Miss Sengutz.” Wiklish replied back to her, the bald goblin was wearing a rather nice looking vest and a shirt as he cleaned his monocle. “Prince Alric, no news of the Dark Irons?”

“Nothing, they are late.” You said back to him. “Thank you Monica, any news?”

“No, nothing has happened here that you should know.” She said.

“Alright, well hoping to see you later, but no promises. Today is going to be a long day.” You said back.

“I understand, just stay safe.” Monica replied and left you alone with the goblin.

“She is a nice lady.” Wiklish said to you and took the tea cup.

“There is a reason why I made her my representative.” You replied and switched the topic. “Master Blacksteel most likely has a reason why he is late. The distance from his homeland to here is a long one and the equipment he brings with him are most likely quite heavy. He would have many reasons to be late.”

“You are right Prince Alric.” Wiklish agreed. “We will just have to wait.”

1/2

>>6072794

The goblin seemed slightly disappointed, he had gathered his assistants who were now finding themselves increasingly bored after having helped him finish the rockets and presenting them to you. With his Geared Speed Regulators being made by the blacksmith, there was very little for the goblins to do other than to wait.

You could maybe ask him to start working on something else in the meanwhile. Something he and his goblin assistants could ponder and tinker upon while nothing else is going on. That would mean needing to invest some resources he needs for it and thankfully you did save some coin for purposes like this. But what exactly would you ask him to start inventing and developing, and how much would you invest in his project?


>Offensive. Continue on developing the Goblin rockets. Work on cannons or something else that could really cause damage to your enemies and knock down the palisades at Gallows Corner or blast trolls and orcs to smithereens.
>Defensive. Land mines, traps and tools that could be used to defend Alterac and Dawnholme from attackers.
>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.
>Goblin Mystery Box. Let Krix Wiklish choose what he will work towards.

Krix Wiklish investments and inventory:
Krix Wiklish can build you the things and gadgets you require, but first he needs some investment. With the goblin attention span being short, you don’t exactly know what you will get when you invest in their work. By giving more Wealth to Krix Wiklish, more potential items and weapons can be purchased.

Investments: 7 Wealth

Inventory:
-Geared Speed Regulator, +1 Supply per Windmill or Mine in your control
-Goblin rockets, allow recruitment of Rocket Troops

New Investments:
>1 Wealth
>2 Wealth
>3 Wealth
>4 Wealth
>5 Wealth
>None

Total Resources:
5 Wealth, +15 per season
4 Supplies, +0 per season
315 Peasants

QM: New thread! Let’s start with Krix Wiklish and his investments. Total Resources are accurate. And as always if you have any questions or anything regarding the Quest, characters, events or something else, please go ahead and ask them. I will try to answer to the best as I can.

>>6072797
>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.

>5 Wealth

Say it with me. Industrial powerhouse Alterac. Though with our territory getting a lot bigger I wouldnt say no to a defensive breakthrough.

Ya know if we really wanted to make more cash and trade we could try to have Jandice and the Barovs sell the Geared Speed Regulator around the alliance. Or try it ourselves to our more accessible neighbors, it might be valuable enough to open the door to trade with Dalaran or the Kingdoms if we had a mind to earn some favor? To dwarves like our isolationist neighbors, or the Dark Irons. Or to Vancleef and Katrana.

>>6072797
>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.
Could he develop a steel refinery from 5 wealth? Lets hope so!
>5 Wealth

>>6072209
I remember Alric made a gentleman's agreement with two thugs in Capital City, so stay out of their business and not recruit Alteracis in that city.

>>6072797
>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.
>5 Wealth
As much as I like mystery boxes, we really need more resources. Is the investments wealth pool depleted when we choose an invention or is it deducted from the normal one?

>>6072975

Deducted from the normal one. The Investments: 7 Wealth is there just to keep track of how much you have actually paid Wiklish in total.

>>6072994
And is that 7+5 what impacts the amount of options we have? Or is it just gonna be the 5 we're putting down right now?

>>6072995

It will be the 5 Wealth/New Investments that impacts whatever option you choose right now. The previous 7 Wealth is what got you the rockets and the gearbox and gives you the option to go further along those tech lines.

>>6073003
Then the "7 wealth" information is rather useless. It's just as relevant as "total wealth spent on buildings" or "total wealth spent on troops", a neat stat but nothing more.

Does the amount of wealth we spend here also affect the quality of the inventions we get?

>>6073012

It can affect the quality, but it mostly affects how much progress Wiklish does achieve within the next season.

>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.
>5 Wealth

I hope we can get firearms soon, so wiklish can study their mechanisms and develop and manufacture your own.

>>6072797
>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.

>5 Wealth

>>6072797
>>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.

5 wealth

i would say defensive next. Wilkish need to move from thing to thing, repeating too soon with him is probably a bad. Since he would lack that spirit.

>Industrial. Tools, equipment. Continuing the development of the Geared Speed Regulator, but most likely end up losing his attention and start working on something new.
>5 Wealth


For reasons exactly like this you had saved the coin and didn’t budget everything away during the summer meeting. You had an opportunity right here to get plenty of long term benefits for a short term loss of your coin, this was an investment to the future.

“Master Wiklish, meanwhile I want you to continue the work on the Geared Speed Regulator or in other ideas similar to that. We have enough coin in the treasury to finance this project.” You said to him.

“Are you serious Prince Alric? It won’t be cheap.” He replied with a question.

“I am, and we should have enough coin even if it is expensive. Your Speed Regulator has already had an impact with our windmills and mines, the amount of time saved and waste products avoided has been really helpful.” You spoke and continued. “We have limited territory, sure there is potential in Strahnbrad Hills, but we can’t develop large swathes of land, we need to concentrate as much on what we have now than on what we could speculate on having in the future.”

Lady Jandice had promised that the Barovs could throw their wealth behind Alterac and her reconstruction, but when would that happen? When would you reclaim Alterac?

“Then I won’t disappoint you.” Wiklish replied proudly.

“Alric never disappoints… except once when…” Monica said as she came carrying bowls of porridge, white bread and dried apples and fruits as a breakfast.

“We were talking about investments.” You interrupted her and stopped her. “I am going to be quite poor yet again.”

“Oh.. well that will hopefully pass.” She replied back. “I will leave you be then, tell Lady Jandice I said hello.”

“I will.” You gave her a smile. “So Master Wiklish, you have the coin, but do you have any ideas?”

“Plenty of ideas Prince Alric, plenty…” Wiklish said and gave you a wide goblin grin. You could see how gears were turning inside his head and how he couldn’t wait to get to work. While he was to wait for Master Blacksteel, at least he would have something to do now.

1/2

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>>6073576

It was closer to midday when you arrived at the Barov Estate. It had taken you a while to get here mostly because Mayor Fowley wasn’t much of a rider, so he travelled on a horse cart.

Not much had changed at the estate from your previous visit here, there were just several more guards at present. Footmen wearing the purple tabards of House Barov.

“You are going to feel something really funny when we get inside.” You quipped to Chief Ragis who was riding next to you. He in return gave you a questioning look. “You will recognise it then.”

He shrugged as a reply.

Circling the horse carts once, you waited till one of the stablehands came to help you. And as you passed the reins to the servant, you saw the front door opening and the one you had been waiting to see walked out.

You smiled as Jandice Barov stood there. She was wearing a dress coloured in the Barov purple and had her archmage robe thrown over her shoulders. She smiled back when she saw you. It was so great to see her, your lover.

“Lady Barov.” You greeted her as she walked towards you.

“Prince Alric. Mayor Fowley.” She greeted you and Fowley back. “And this is?”

“Chief Ragis of Stonedon.” You replied and watched as he gave her a stiff bow, Ragis really didn’t know how to bow in any other way.

“Lady Barov.” He said.

“Last night I received your messenger Mayor Fowley and I am glad for the three of you having come here.” Jandice said and continued. “Based on what the messenger told me, Prince Alric you seem to be causing trouble yet again.”

“I wouldn’t exactly call it trouble.” You replied with a laugh as her tone had been playful as well.

“Nevertheless, you are always in the centre of the attention.” She said back. “Now I would be a bad host if I didn’t invite the three of you inside, please follow me.”

Following her, you felt the strange feeling of entering her home. Through magic, wards and enchantments, the estate was bigger from inside than it looked from outside. Chief Ragis must have noticed the feeling as he looked around somewhat confused of what he had just felt. It didn’t take long for the four of you having sat down around a dining table and one of the maids having brought wine for all of you to drink.

“We can talk about leisure and gossip later, let us handle the business first.” Jandice said to all of you. “Prince Alric, what exactly did you want us to talk about?”


>Organising the joint patrols between Tarren Mill, Barovs, Stonedon and Alterac. See if Barovs and Tarren Mill could patrol Strahnbrad Hills with your men.
>Discussing the Durnholde Campaign and if Barovs and Tarren Mill could participate in it in some capacity.
>Talking about the orc you caught and the implications around it.
>Speak about Darrowmere League and trade. See if you could progress on getting Barovs to join your defensive league.
>Other, write in.

>>6073578
>>Organising the joint patrols between Tarren Mill, Barovs, Stonedon and Alterac. See if Barovs and Tarren Mill could patrol Strahnbrad Hills with your men.
>>Discussing the Durnholde Campaign and if Barovs and Tarren Mill could participate in it in some capacity.
>>Talking about the orc you caught and the implications around it.

>>6073578
>Organising the joint patrols between Tarren Mill, Barovs, Stonedon and Alterac. See if Barovs and Tarren Mill could patrol Strahnbrad Hills with your men.
>Talking about the orc you caught and the implications around it.
>Speak about Darrowmere League and trade. See if you could progress on getting Barovs to join your defensive league.
Tarren Mill doesn't have the troops to spare and we shouldn't ask it of the Barovs.

>>6073578
>Organising the joint patrols between Tarren Mill, Barovs, Stonedon and Alterac. See if Barovs and Tarren Mill could patrol Strahnbrad Hills with your men
>Talking about the orc you caught and the implications around it.
>Speak about Darrowmere League and trade. See if you could progress on getting Barovs to join your defensive league

>Other, write in.
Gnoll migration puts Tarren Mill and this estate in no small danger. Ask Jandice if she personally would join the campaign in their stead. Not the troops unless she wanted bodyguards, but she could join our camp. We have a few other mages so that might open up larger spells, like the great troll burning of the ancient arathi empire.

If she had some opinion on Prince Kaels offer that might be good. Maybe we could have tried a counter offer, or what she thinks he might have wanted. Also her opinion of Kel Thuzad. Though perhaps that would be better spoken of in private.

>>6073578
>>6073656
>>6073686
support. It's tempting to invite Jandice along for the campaign in a professional capacity as a mage, though I see issues between Jandice and Malevus developing over Alric.

If we do invite her, then we need to make clear that Alric has made a firm commitment to his squire that requires his entire attention. There can be no other romantic arrangements now

You sipped the wine a bit and took off your darkened glasses, all three of them had seen your eyes before and frankly it felt a bit silly to wear the glasses inside.

The four of you around the table couldn’t have been more different from each other. An Alteraci Prince trying to reclaim his homeland, a chief of a hill-tribe in a world that changes around him, a powerful and rich archmage conflicted by both of her duties and personal reasons and a small bookish merchant, who probably was the most normal of the four of you.

“Firstly we should start with the most recent news.” You said to Jandice. “Two days ago my patrol found orc tracks in Strahnbrad Hills and we chased the orc down, capturing it and sending it wrapped in chains to Dawnholme.”

“What was an orc doing in Strahnbrad Hills?” Jandice asked you. “A raiding party? A scout?”

“It was a lone orc so maybe a messenger or a scout. I dueled him and instead of fighting to the death, he held back.” You said to her and continued. “It laughed as it fought, like he was some sort of a madman… err mad orc, but he fought smartly.”

“Peculiar…” Jandice mused aloud.

“There is no trusting of the orcs.” Fowley said and shook his head. “I spoke with our officers and they think that they could repel a raiding party, but a larger force…”

“Would sweep us away, like a fall storm takes away leaves.” Ragis responded, gaining curious looks as you hadn’t thought the tall bearded man to be capable of being poetic.

“That is why we need to cooperate. Stonedon alone can’t defend Strahnbrad Hills, nor can Tarren Mill repel a larger force. But together we could achieve that, if we were to cooperate.” You said to them and continued. “Alterac has already helped to train the soldiers of Tarren Mill and we have supplied Chief Ragis and his warriors with arms and armour. We have had the talks of deeper cooperation when it comes to patrols, but if we all aren’t on the same page, we won’t get everything out of it.”

“What are you exactly suggesting?” Jandice asked and based on her tone, she knew what you were going to say.

“Joint patrols from start to finish. Instead of having Tarren Mill to only patrol their territory or Barovs their estates, we should have warriors of Stonedon travel as south as the bridge over Darrowmere River and footmen in the Barov purple travel to Shoredon and beyond.” You told them and continued. “Combined and well planned, we can cover the right bank of the river and prevent whatever the threats are from crossing, as they are many. The gnolls, the Syndicate, the orcs.”

“Alric…” Jandice said back and she dropped calling you a Prince. “You know well that I can’t make that decision.”

“You spoke with your father about sending more troops here? You must have spoken about the patrols as well?” You asked her and looked into her eyes.

1/2

>>6074633

“And he only agreed on sending the few troops we have now and he outright forbade having those men helping or cooperating with anyone else other than Tarren Mill or the Alliance.” Jandice told you back.

“Darrowmere League is a defensive alliance, it isn’t some tool to be used against the Alliance, but to defend ourselves together.” You said to her.

“League of which Alterac is the largest partner and will be the largest partner. Kirin Tor aren’t exactly concerned, but they are watching you Alric. And my father has the King’s ear, you know his attitude towards you.” Jandice continued arguing back.

“But you do recognise the benefits of what I am suggesting?”

“I do…” She said and you interrupted her.

“Then what are we doing here?” You said with a raised voice and threw your hands up.

“...But I cannot agree to anything more than helping Tarren Mill. I am an archmage of Dalaran and one of the Barovs.” Jandice argued back to you and continued. “I do not have the same independence as you do…”

She was conflicted. She saw the benefits of your words, but her duties towards Dalaran and her family seemed to be stronger than that. It seemed that Barovs could work together with Tarren Mill, it was their land after all, but nothing more. Alteracis and Stonedon have no issues patrolling together, but if proper joint patrols aren’t possible, there will be gaps and the green soldiers of Tarren Mill don’t have the skills your men do.

“We are ready to handle the patrols south of Tarren Mill with Mayor Fowley, but working together with you is impossible.” Jandice said to you. “Especially as we do not have any special interests in Strahnbrad Hills, not anymore.”

She meant the oil rig, you had passed the Barovs on that and most likely her father was forbidding further cooperation till some point in the future. This was frustrating, you knew that Jandice was smarter than this, but if her sense of duty said to follow her orders…

“I am sorry Alric, but my hands are tied.” Jandice told you.

You looked at her, there was a sliver of understanding in her eyes, but a certain sadness of not being able to say yes to this. She was conflicted, would she go against her family and father? If she went, what would they thing? What would Dalaran think? Would it be worth it?


>The hell they are tied! Jandice is not in Dalaran, nor is her father in this room right now. She can make the decision on her own and stand behind said decision.
>Argue for the benefits of joint patrols, she will realise and accept the benefits outweigh whatever arguments her father or Dalaran might have against it.
>Accept the present situation. Barovs will patrol with Tarren Mill and you will patrol with Stonedon.
>It looks like if Barovs won’t cooperate with you, then it would be better if they sit out of this completely. You will patrol the lands with Stonedon and Tarren Mill.
>Other, write in.

QM: Some pastebin updates here and there.

>>6074635
Didn't she say herself that it's her and her brothers that run the Barov business now? And if the Kirin Tor isn't concerned then where's the problem?

>"And he only agreed on sending the few troops we have now and he outright forbade having those men helping or cooperating with anyone else other than Tarren Mill or the Alliance.”
And by helping us they'd be helping Tarren Mill.

>>6074647

Jandice and her brothers do run the Barov businesses and handle most of the daily tasks, but Alexei Barov is still the head of the family and has the final say on things. Especially when it comes to military matters. Dalaran might not be concerned right now, but they might become concerned and as an archmage it is her task to prevent said concern if possible.

>>6074635
>>It looks like if Barovs won’t cooperate with you, then it would be better if they sit out of this completely. You will patrol the lands with Stonedon and Tarren Mill

The League exist for a reason, it will defend the land no matter what. Has a prince we have made such a pact and stand by it, how we can fullfill it if we cant even patrol together with the soldiers of Tarren Mill ? We will not be denied doing patrols with an ally and partner by Dalaran, the Alliance or the Barovs. Not when the League was a victory by us politically and diplomatically. Dawnholme, Stonedon and Tarren Mill will stand together.

>>6074647
The "business" was probably meant like the trades and other activities of their estates. But her father is 100% fully occupied with Alliance internal politics, we did see it before and she points it out here again. This is political not only a military action, with the Barovs not getting in the Hills and her father not really liking us before this is a natural conclusion. They are fine with trade (and Jandice can do whatever in secret) but politically they don't want a clear association, this patrols would create that.

Kirin Tor lie, this a clear showing of them of their dislike of what Alric did in their city. This being what we did and still do in the Underbelly (taking people from that stinky hole and giving them a better place), so a little petty vengeance and a clear "we are watching your League thing, princeling".

>>6074658
>>6074663
Ugh... damnable politicking.

>>6074635
>>6074647
>It looks like if Barovs won’t cooperate with you, then it would be better if they sit out of this completely. You will patrol the lands with Stonedon and Tarren Mill.
So be it then.

>>6074635
Argh if we had taken Kael's deal for support I could have pushed the angle that she'd be supporting Dalaran and her duties there to override duty to the Barovs. Anyone in Dalaran could hardly complain about Jandice helping if Kael was helping or so I figured. I think theres still an angle though.

>Other, write in.
How about replacing that special interest with something else. The Darrowmere river. The ogres having taken Gallows Corner the path to Strahnbrad is still unusable or in greater danger, an unsophisticated dam and trolls block the northern part of the river. As it stands any trade between north and south has to go around the long way by Lordamere lake, or the western path. Even the ships have to go around Gilneas. Would the trade benefits of reopening the river for much more efficient trade, maybe even some exclusivity to its use be worthwhile enough to sway the rest of her family?

>>6074635
>Accept the present situation. Barovs will patrol with Tarren Mill and you will patrol with Stonedon.

My thinking is that this way, Tarren Mill's own militia can patrol further into Strahnbrad Hills.
Barov's soldiery can patrol Tarren Mill itself, and any leftover Alteracis/Stonedon forces mind the rest of the inland Hills area, like the Stonemason mercenaries.

This way we have maximum boots on the ground, and they don't get deployed elsewhere such as helping Garithos in his plans.

I admit I don't understand why everyone so far is completely eliminating Barov assistance unless I'm missing something?

>>6074673
I think the benefits of such a deal is too far off to sway him.

>>6074697
Mainly a message to the Lord Barov to play ball or fuck off of Tarren Mill.

>>6074703
I think they've shown some willingness to wait for returns. Their oil deal had a fair bit of immediate payoff for us that they would fork over while they wait for the oil money to really start rolling in after some years. Not enough to beat Katrana's deal of course, but it was there. Besides theres no issue with proposing this to see Jandice's opinion and put our foot in the door for a show of good faith. If she rejects it, then its just back to whatever works for the patrol. Lets try it.

>>6074709
Yes, but we're not talking about business or about the Young Barovs. This is a military and political matter which has taken the interest of the Lord Barov. Such deals will not work on him

It is not Jandice's mind we need to change anon.

>>6074635
>Other, write in.

As for an angle on her loyalty to Dalaran. There was the Death Knight remains that Alric ""discovered"" in the hills. I imagine Dalaran and the Alliance would be worried about that. Wheres theres one there could be more. Isn't it strange that the gnolls would move in -again- so soon after the last batch? Maybe Dalaran would look favorably on knowing what was causing them to migrate this way again. Orcs and their warlocks? More Death Knights woken from their slumber? Syndicate? Trolls?

>>6074711
If Lord Barov was willing to abide by the oil deal with them providing troops, and a Barov Trade Outpost in Dawnholme headed by Jandice, its just a matter of making it look like theres something worth it. Frame the trade as lucrative or strategic enough then it will involve military and politics, just like the oil deal. She takes this to her father and he can think on it so we can work towards their cooperation later, or atleast start with her brothers which is better then nothing. If all the Young Barovs agree then maybe thats enough leeway for Jandice, maybe not. If they think it might pay off in the long run thats good enough even if they can't be convinced to act right now. Just float the idea to Jandice and see what she thinks.

>>6074635
>>Accept the present situation. Barovs will patrol with Tarren Mill and you will patrol with Stonedon.
I dont even know what anons were thinking. Barov parents deeply dislike us and have zero reason to cooperate with us after we screwed them over the oil. The oil whos location was informed to us by them.
Just get as much benefit as you can from this and let it drop no need to put Jandice in a tough situation.

>>6074635
>Accept the present situation. Barovs will patrol with Tarren Mill and you will patrol with Stonedon.
might as well accept what token support we get, and not anger the barov family.

>>6074703
This I can get, but we can hardly stop Lord Alexei Barov from sending his own troops to patrol his own properties. At least this way the troops patrol the wider area around the property and remain useful to Tarren Mill and not deepening any real or perceived rift between Fowley and his liege.

We don't want that kind of attention.

I feel absolutely knackered and have no energy for a proper update today. But I can ask a small clarification due to the winning vote, as it looks like accepting the present situation is the winner. As your soldiers are going to use Tarren Mill as a base and patrol the lands north of the town with Stonedon, how will Tarren Mill handle their patrols? A small vote to keep the quest going.


>Tarren Mill concentrates on their territory and everything south of it with the Barovs.
>Tarren Mill will send their patrols up north towards and into Strahnbrad Hills at expense of stronger coverage in the south.

And as there is going to be dinner and lighter talks, will there be sweet talk between the lovers?

>Flirt openly with Jandice
>Covertly flirt with Jandice
>Don’t flirt with Jandice
>Other, write in

>>6075349
>Tarren Mill will send their patrols up north towards and into Strahnbrad Hills at expense of stronger coverage in the south.
>Don’t flirt with Jandice

Qm question did wiliks invention improve the mines output? And if so did we get more money for that?

>>6075349
>>Tarren Mill will send their patrols up north towards and into Strahnbrad Hills at expense of stronger coverage in the south.
>Don’t flirt with Jandice

>>6075349
>>Tarren Mill will send their patrols up north towards and into Strahnbrad Hills at expense of stronger coverage in the south.
>Don’t flirt with Jandice

>>6075349
>Don’t flirt with Jandice
>Other
Alric is a good boy. When the moment presents itself for a private chat, explain the situation with Malevus. I feel we owe her that at least as she has confessed her love in magic ink already.

>Tarren Mill will send their patrols up north towards and into Strahnbrad Hills at expense of stronger coverage in the south.
Tarren Mill and Barov patrols could overlap, and then Alterac/Stonedon overlap with Tarren Mill in the north east.

>>6075349
>Covertly flirt with Jandice
>Tarren Mill will send their patrols up north towards and into Strahnbrad Hills at expense of stronger coverage in the south.

There maybe was a reason to force the issue, but whatever that reason was, it would cause problems for Jandice which was something you didn’t want to happen. You didn’t want to set her against her family or against whatever Kirin Tor might want. So a compromise it is.

“Alright, so be it then.” You said and sighed. “Alterac and the Barovs won’t cooperate over the patrols, but we will all use Tarren Mill as a base, for rest and storing supplies.”

“That does sound doable.” Jandice replied to you.

“If plausible, Tarren Mill’s patrols could range north into Strahnbrad Hills as well. Sure it opens up the south a bit, but the south is more well covered by both Durnholde and now the Alliance Naval Base.” You spoke and continued. “Since we defeated the gnoll camp on this side of the river, have there been any threats that have cropped up?”

“Wolves? Bears?” Fowley mused. “At least no gnolls outside of those who were caught earlier this spring.”

“Murlocks might swim up river, but that's it.” You replied and shrugged.

“Do we have an agreement then Prince Alric?” Jandice asked you. She used the prefix again. “We handle the lands south of Tarren Mill, and Tarren Mill when they can, patrol Strahnbrad Hills as well?”

“We can do it Lady Jandice.” Fowley replied back.

“It isn’t exactly what I wanted, but politics is full of compromises.” You said and gave her a shrug and a smile.

Chief Ragis chose to just nod.

“Then we have an understanding, wasn’t that what you came here for?” Jandice said and asked you. There was a bit of a playful tone in her voice when she said that.

“To discuss the patrols yes, that was the reason.” You said and chose to not acknowledge her tone.

“Then shall we have a small recess? I feel like I need to lie down for a moment, my stomach didn’t like the travel here.” Fowley asked Jandice.

“We can do that, I will have one of our maids to come see you shortly. She knows a bit of healing magic.” Jandice replied.

“Thank you Lady Jandice.” Fowley said back to her.

Jandice gave you a faint smile to which you replied with your own.

“I will go and catch some fresh air outside, can you help our good Mayor in the meantime?” You said to Jandice.

“I can do that, now Mayor Fowley please come, I will show you the way.” Jandice said to him and stood up.

1/3

>>6076057

You had walked outside to the gardens behind the estate. Thankfully you had remembered the way from your last visit here as it would have been a bit embarrassing to get lost in such a large mansion.

Annoyed by Jandice's responsibilities to her family and Dalaran, you took a deep breath and put your dark glasses back on. You had hoped she would have decided to make her own decisions, but no it wasn’t to be that. Yet the way she looked at you and how she spoke to you, there was the care she had shown to you.

“Prince Alric, you were right.” Ragis said to you and scratched his beard.

“About what?” You asked him. He had joined you outside.

“Of the funny feeling.”

“Oh right, yes the mansion is larger from inside than it looks from outside. Lady Jandice told me that it took her quite a long time to get all the wards and enchantments ready for it to work.” You told Ragis.

“It is quite fascinating.” He replied to you.

“Just wait till you get to see Dalaran one day, that place is magnificent. Beyond anything I or you could imagine.” You said to him and asked him a question. “You were silent for most of the time, what were you thinking?”

Ragis looked at you and then looked back into the garden.

“Lady Barov is conflicted.” Ragis told you.

“And?”

“I saw the soldiers of Tarren Mill, they are green just like my warriors. But the guards here, they carry themselves well.” Ragis said to you. “The Barov footmen will fight well.”

“I think so too, just hoping that we can avoid any fighting.” You said back to him and took another deep breath. “Alright, let’s head back in, maybe Fowley has found a place to rest. The man can’t just avoid his stomach issues.”

…

It was a needed break for all of you. Fowley had laid down in a bed and one of the maids was apparently tending him with both herbal tea and some sort of spells. The fresh air was something you had really needed and now you had talked briefly with Jandice about lunch preparations. It seemed like a fine idea, an opportunity to continue the talks after Fowley’s upset stomach calms down.

Having sat down, more wine had been served and the casual talk that followed was mostly about what the two of you had been doing recently. Ragis thankfully quickly realised that he didn’t have much to say and excused himself, saying that he will go tend his horse and then talk with the guards, to which Jandice thankfully gave him directions to where to find their officer.

“Poor man, he is so out of place here.” You said to Jandice. “The hill people have had very little contact with those from outside over the years and now we are here marching into their lands, bringing men, equipment and war with us.”

“He seems like a proud man.” Jandice replied.

“He is, but he is a good man.”

2/3

>>6076058

She gave you a smile and sipped her wine. While the two of you were alone in the dining room, this wasn’t exactly that private of a situation. Maybe it would be better to keep the sweet words away for a moment or two, or at least till you are in a properly private place?

“Alric, how long are you going to stay here? Planning on leaving after lunch when all the talks are done?” Jandice asked you.

“You know, I am not sure yet.” Was your answer. “I had planned this roundtrip through the hills and Tarren Mill only to take a couple days, after all I now have an orc in my dungeon waiting for me to return.”

“Stay for the night and ride back to Dawnholme tomorrow?” Jandice suggested half innocently as she bit her lower lip. “We could talk more in private and then later have some fun together…”

Oh you knew well what that fun was. The mere idea of spending a night together with your lover sends warmth and desire through your body. And as much as you had avoided flirting with her with others around, the way she spoke to you made you smile. Ahh blasted, why was she so beautiful and so alluring? Who knows when you have the opportunity to see her again, so a night spent with her wouldn’t hurt at all.


>Why wait till the evening? You could have some light fun with her before lunch and maybe talk about some things in private.
>Jandice’s offer sounds quite doable and fun. Stay for the night and leave tomorrow. You can talk in private and later spend the night with your lover.
>You are planning on leaving back to Tarren Mill for the night. The two of you can talk in private before and after lunch.
>Talk with her now and then leave to Dawnholme after the lunch. That way you get back home before it is too late in the evening.
>Other, write in.

>>6076059
>Talk with her now and then leave to Dawnholme after the lunch. That way you get back home before it is too late in the evening.
Do not betray the squirefu with infidelity.

>>6076059
>>Jandice’s offer sounds quite doable and fun. Stay for the night and leave tomorrow. You can talk in private and later spend the night with your lover.

>>6076059
>>Jandice’s offer sounds quite doable and fun. Stay for the night and leave tomorrow. You can talk in private and later spend the night with your lover.

>>6076059
>Jandice’s offer sounds quite doable and fun. Stay for the night and leave tomorrow. You can talk in private and later spend the night with your lover.

>>6076075
Infidelity? She knew what she was getting into.

>>6076093
Infidelity? She knew what she was getting into.
No? Wasnt the whole relationship with Jandice a secret? when did Malevus found out and do we even now if shes okay with that?

>Talk with her now and then leave to Dawnholme after the lunch. That way you get back home before it is too late in the evening.

>>6076100
When Alric had his mental breakdown. I think she would've said something if she had a problem with it.

You grinned and smiled at her.

“Well Jan… how could I say no to that…” You replied with a tone that didn’t hide your intentions.

“I knew you would say yes.” Jan replied to you.

“I can leave tomorrow. We can tell the others that we have talks about trade and business, which will take most of the remaining day.” You said to her and mulled the idea a bit. “Terrible thing that, negotiations lasting so long…”

“Al… I thought for a moment you wouldn’t even speak sweet words to me and now look at you…” Jan said to you as she sipped her wine. You could see the want in her eyes. If not for the guests and the present situation, you could probably have her right here on this table.

“We have guests Jan, we have roles to play. We can’t just openly lust for each other.” You said and laughed.

“Not going to lie, that would be pretty fun…” Jan said back and joined you in laughing.

It took the two of you a second to gather yourself together.

“It is so great to see you Jan.” You said and smiled, you always had so much fun with her. It was her energy, the want to find joy and excitement together. The care you showed towards each other.

“You too Al, you too. Both of us are just so busy, I am leaving back to Dalaran in three days or so and who knows when I will return.” Jan said to you.

“I guess asking you to join me in Durnholde is out of the question then?” You asked her. “I could use an archmage.”

“Sorry Al, but I think I will already be in Caer Darrow then. Besides, Durnholde left a bit of a bad taste in my mouth… I don’t want to go there unless forced.” Jan said and grimaced.

“I understand, well it was worth a try.” You said back.

“You do have your own mages, that I have heard.” Jan said.

“Yes, but none of them are a beautiful archmage like you.” You replied back to her and laughed.

Jan sighed and shook her head.

“So is there anything you want to talk about? Before lunch, that is?” Jan asked and changed the subject. “Or do you just want to flatter me and get me all hot and bothered?”

You sipped your glass of wine and thought for a moment. That did sound like a fun idea, but maybe you should handle some business first?


Choose two:
>Speak to her about her family and Dalaran. You want to know where her father really stands and what does Dalaran really want of you?
>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>Ask her about Kel’Thuzad and his excommunication. What has she heard? Jandice is an archmage, she should know more about what has happened.
>Tell her about Malevus, your feelings towards her and her allowing you to court her. See where Jandice and you stand in all of this.
>Other, write in

QM: Choose two. Just two so that I don’t have to write all the options in one go, we will go through the rest of them later. And if Alric has any other questions or things to discuss with Jandice, write ins would work really well here.

>>6076275
>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>Ask her about Kel’Thuzad and his excommunication. What has she heard? Jandice is an archmage, she should know more about what has happened.

>>6076275
>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>Ask her about Kel’Thuzad and his excommunication. What has she heard? Jandice is an archmage, she should know more about what has happened.

>>6076145
That was before alric commited to courting her and her agreeing to a relationship. I dont really see the blushy innocent squirefu being that ok with it so id rather ask her first before doing anything else but alas too late now.

>>6075838
Such great and intoxicating explanation....

>>6076093
In a serious relationship you mean ? Yeah she agreed to that after Alric openly pursued that and made it very clear he wanted that. He wanted Malevus and, made it very clear for what > girlfriend, so he wants a relationship and more with her. The real deal. The settle down kind of thing, the blatantly honest "i would like to have 4-5 kids" kind of thing. Malevus even wanted to be sure Alric was sure of this, and that she was sure of this. Sweet isn't it ?

And by all means Alric is free at this moment. So far beside Jandice he is not with someone else, he is not a womanizer really (he uses this reputation, but it's not the real him). Women like him and he certainly likes women, but he doesn't go to multiple of them. He so far stays with just one, with Calia behind, he decided to try something with Jandice. And Jandice relationship is not that serious for Alric, he likes her. But by all means from his point of view this is just a fling that they agreed upon.

Funny question for all now : what most peoples of the continent think is a serious relationship ?

>>6076145
I don't think that's what you usually say to someone breaking down. Still wanting a serious relationship and saying it to someone you love, is kind of an answer already.


>>6076275
>>Ask her about Kel’Thuzad and his excommunication. What has she heard? Jandice is an archmage, she should know more about what has happened.
>>Tell her about Malevus, your feelings towards her and her allowing you to court her. See where Jandice and you stand in all of this.

two choices, better use them. i don't see why Alric shouldn't say something that is very important to him and Jandice. I like her has a character, and she helped us a bit beside the zex. I respect her enough to tell her now.

>>6076275
>>6076275
>>Ask her about Kel’Thuzad and his excommunication. What has she heard? Jandice is an archmage, she should know more about what has happened.
>>Tell her about Malevus, your feelings towards her and her allowing you to court her. See where Jandice and you stand in all of this.

Missed the opp to vote against staying the night but oh well.

Talking about Kel'Thuzad is easy winner, but we have a tie between Malevus and Kael'thas. Could I have a tiebreaker vote between them?

>>6076361
Do I think she prefers it this way? No. Is she at ok with it? I think so.

>>6076487
None of that contradicts what I said.

>>6076639
>Ask her about Kel’Thuzad and his excommunication. What has she heard? Jandice is an archmage, she should know more about what has happened.
>Tell her about Malevus, your feelings towards her and her allowing you to court her. See where Jandice and you stand in all of this.

Apologies, I had planned on writing during my "nothing ever happens watching security TV screens" night shift, but 'lo and behold it was actually a busy night. Who knew some idiots would choose to go spelunking into a fenced industrial park and get caught by our cameras.

Now though I had planned the update to be a multiparter regarding Malevus and Jandice, with the first being the information and second what direction will things go. You already had some discussion that was interesting to read and what Malevus had said to Alric during his Fel caused panic attack is rather on topic now as well. So I could ask prematurely what do you think? Should this arrangement continue, should it change?

I will also ask for a roll, this is for events after the lunch.


>1d10
>Best of three, taking the second roll

Rolled 1 (1d10)

>>6076892

Rolled 7 (1d10)

>>6076892
>Inb4 shit roll

Rolled 10 (1d10)

>>6076892

“While that would be fun…” You said and chuckled a bit. “We should be serious for a moment or two.”

“What do you have in mind then?” Jan replied and shifted in her seat, straightening her back and allowing her more regal tone in her voice to return.

“Kel’Thuzad.” You said matter of factly.

“How do you know about him?” Jan asked, guessing correctly what you already knew.

“Prince Kael’thas warned me. Send me a letter telling about his excommunication, that he is very dangerous and we shouldn’t try to apprehend him, but if we do, Dalaran would reward us.” You told her.

Jan seemed to think for a few seconds before she spoke.

“Archmage Kel’Thuzad was one of the most respected archmages in Dalaran and he gave Kirin Tor several decades of loyal service.” Jan said.

“Then what happened?”

“He flew too close to the sun.” She spoke and continued after a pause. “There are many things we aren’t allowed to study beyond the surface level, beyond the need to know how to counter or protect yourself.”

“Like Fel.” Her demonstration in Tarren Mill came to your mind.

“Like Fel, but there are some subjects that skirt very close to being forbidden, yet stay allowed.” Jan said and continued again. “Kel’Thuzad was a master physician, no one else in Dalaran and probably in the rest of the world knew as much as he did about the human body.”

“My teacher suggested asking for his help after I had my incident.” You said back to her.

“Precisely, he probably could have helped you. But during his studies of the human body, he ventured too deep into the question of what exactly is life?” Jan told you.

“Did he try to…”

“Yes, at least that is the rumour. Kel’Thuzad had tried to resurrect some dead animals. He was warned, his laboratories and stashes were raided and instead of dropping the issue, he fled.” Jan said to you. “He had heard the rumours of potentially getting excommunicated and chose to flee before he was caught.”

“Necromancy…” You whispered.

Jan just nodded.

“Kel’Thuzad is a mighty archmage, he knows how to apply his previous knowledge. If he had stayed in Dalaran, he could have caused a great cataclysm maybe within a year or two.” Jan said.

“Year? That quick to learn how to…”

“Yes, that is the difference between an archmage and a beginner like you. If I put the time and effort into learning something new, maybe I could achieve similar results…” Jan said and shrugged. “Alas, I don’t have time for it, I don’t have time to study illusions as much as I would love to.”

Jan seemed annoyed about that.

“Then what would you suggest I do if Kel’Thuzad makes his way to Alterac?” You had to ask her.

1/3

>>6077530

“Leave him be, he is too dangerous for you to try to capture or apprehend. But he is also a pragmatic man, he doesn’t do things without a reason. If Kel’Thuzad comes to Alterac, he must have some reason to be there… and you should let him go and do whatever he wants.” Jan spoke and finished.

“You speak like you know him?”

“He was my teacher for a while years ago…” Jan said and looked away for a moment. “It makes it harder, you know, none of us could have predicted he would delve into necromancy, even if he always had his peculiarities.”

“I see… I will heed your warning, but I wonder what he would want in Alterac?” You asked her.

“Al… I don’t know. It is just this all left a bad taste in my mouth. I wonder if Kirin Tor could have handled things differently and he didn’t need to go into exile? Because we lost a great archmage…” Jan mused aloud.

To let him go and do whatever he wants? Well as long as he isn’t a cause of a threat or a danger to Alteracis, that could be the way to go for you.

Well then… that was the easy subject for you to ask and talk about. Next something a bit more difficult. First to pour your glass full of wine again.

“Al… what are you thinking?” Jan asked, clearly noticing you being quite thoughtful.

“I was thinking of Malevus.” You said to her.

“What about her? Is she alright?” Jan asked, concern in her voice.

“She got wounded during the battle against the ogres and kobolds, you have heard about it, right?” You said and asked her.

“She got wounded?” Jan quickly asked and leaned forward.

“Not seriously, she is going to make a full recovery with just a couple new scars.” You said and waved her concerns away. “It is another thing regarding her that we need to talk about…”

“What is it?” Jan was now rather confused.

“Malevus gave me permission to court her…” You told Jan.

Her eyes opened in a full surprise before a wide smile appeared on her face. She stood up from her chair, walked around the table to you and took hold of your hands. Realising that maybe you should stand up, you faced her for only a second before she hugged you and wrapped her arms around you.

You were taken somewhat by surprise as you hadn’t expected this to be her reaction. After a short moment, she relented and let go of you, though still keeping hold of your hands.

“Al, I knew there was something between the two of you. The way she blushed and looked at you.” Jan said to you and she had a wide smile on her face.

You looked back at her mouth slightly agape.

“You aren’t disappointed or…” You started to say.

“I am happy for you Al, what else could I be, but happy?” Jan replied.

“I thought…”

“That I would be mad? That Malevus has taken Al away from me?” Jan said back.

2/3

>>6077531


“You really aren’t mad?” You had to repeat yourself.

“No!” Jan nearly shouted. “When did the two of you become a couple?”

“Just a bit over a week ago…” You said to Jan. “You aren’t against it?”

“Why would I be? Al, we talked about this. I love you, I want to be at your side and you are everything I would want in a man, but I am not ready for us to be more than what we are.” Jan said, her voice became more quiet as she leaned in and allowed her cheek to touch yours. “I have realised that I would lose to someone else sooner than later, that I was in a race where everyone else had the head start.”

“Jan…” You started to say something, but were again interrupted.

“You are bewildered Al, but we have some time before lunch, so tell me everything. I want to know how Malevus ended up giving her permission for you to court her.” Jan asked, released your hands and took a step back. “And what are your plans?”


>Just tell Jandice everything. All the small things you like about her, the couple moments of closeness, the night when you had the panic attack. What Malevus said to you that night about you and Jandice.
>Tell Jandice about your feelings that you have for Malevus. She should understand the difference between how you feel for Malevus and for her.
>Keep things short and simple, she just only few days gave you permission to court her.
>You are going to take it slowly with Malevus, that is what she wants and you are going to honour her wish.
>You are going to chase her, just like in her favourite steamy romance novel.
>Other, write in

>Ask more about Kel'Thuzad. Jandice seemed to know him rather well and she seems to not say everything.
>Why exactly is necromancy so forbidden? You could imagine trying to find what life exactly is a task worthy of trying to accomplish
>Jandice is an archmage, is there anything forbidden that you should know about or learn about?
>Other, write in


QM: Took me a while, but here is the update.

>>6077535
>Tell Jandice about your feelings that you have for Malevus. She should understand the difference between how you feel for Malevus and for her.
>You are going to take it slowly with Malevus, that is what she wants and you are going to honour her wish.

>Ask more about Kel'Thuzad. Jandice seemed to know him rather well and she seems to not say everything.
>Why exactly is necromancy so forbidden? You could imagine trying to find what life exactly is a task worthy of trying to accomplish
>Jandice is an archmage, is there anything forbidden that you should know about or learn about?
Questions too good to pass up.
Btw QM were the rolls for how well jandice takes the news or for something unrelated?

>>6077535
>Just tell Jandice everything. All the small things you like about her, the couple moments of closeness, the night when you had the panic attack. What Malevus said to you that night about you and Jandice.
>Ask more about Kel'Thuzad. Jandice seemed to know him rather well and she seems to not say everything.
>Jandice is an archmage, is there anything forbidden that you should know about or learn about?

>>6077681
Support. Mention that we encountered the deathknight remains so there's a particular loathing of necromancy.

>>6077681

Unrelated, will come up shortly.

>>6077535
>>Just tell Jandice everything. All the small things you like about her, the couple moments of closeness, the night when you had the panic attack. What Malevus said to you that night about you and Jandice.

>Ask more about Kel'Thuzad. Jandice seemed to know him rather well and she seems to not say everything.
>Why exactly is necromancy so forbidden? You could imagine trying to find what life exactly is a task worthy of trying to accomplish
>Jandice is an archmage, is there anything forbidden that you should know about or learn about?

LOADED

>>6077535
>Keep things short and simple, she just only few days gave you permission to court her.
>Ask more about Kel'Thuzad. Jandice seemed to know him rather well and she seems to not say everything

>>6077535
>>Just tell Jandice everything. All the small things you like about her, the couple moments of closeness, the night when you had the panic attack. What Malevus said to you that night about you and Jandice.

>Ask more about Kel'Thuzad. Jandice seemed to know him rather well and she seems to not say everything.
>Why exactly is necromancy so forbidden? You could imagine trying to find what life exactly is a task worthy of trying to accomplish
>Jandice is an archmage, is there anything forbidden that you should know about or learn about?

Asking about forbidden stuff, could I have a roll. Due to granularity required, it is 1d20 instead of the usual 1d10. No update today, real life stuff took priority.


>1d20
>Best of three

Rolled 14 (1d20)

>>6078261
inb4 triple nat1

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>>6078261
20get

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>6078261

“Well if we have the time…” You said to Jan sat back down, signalling her that she should take a seat as well. “Because it is a long story.”

“As long as Mayor Fowley doesn’t march through that door, I think we have the time.” Jan replied as she did as you wanted.

Pouring more wine for the both of you, you started to tell the story nearly from the beginning. From the early days of her training when she didn’t give up as you tested her mettle, from how loyal she became to you and how apparent her care was. Her wild imagination and love of steamy romance novels that probably helped her imagine you as this dashing young Prince, which to be honest you are. All these small daily things between you and her, the sparring, her helping you to put on your armour, the small tasks and just her following you as your squire as your bodyguard.

How you succeeded in changing her life and allowing her to go for her dreams, how she saved your life when the gnoll had gotten the upper hand and punched a hole in your chest. Her concern and care for you, how slowly you had started to have feelings for her and vice versa.

How that one night you had a panic attack after a Fel induced nightmare, how you had seeked council and help from Malevus. How she had held you and helped you to calm down, how she had told you to tell her truth and so you had done so. You had told Malevus about you and Jan, about what had happened in the cabin and what has happened since then. That the two of you were lovers. And you told Jan what Malevus had said to you, as long as you and her are happy, she wouldn’t care about what was going on as long as you were truthful with her.

You spoke about the kiss that followed, how embarrassed Malevus had been and how you found that really cute. You spoke about the couple moments of closeness that had followed, the talks that had followed about wanting a large family. The careful prodding by her until the day she gave you the permission to court her.

And through this Jan just listened carefully, without reacting much at all.

“And here we are.” You finished.

“She loves you Al.” Jan replied immediately. “And I think you love her too.”

You chose not to say anything back.

“I can see it in your eyes when you speak about her.” Jan said and then took a deep breath. “Alright, I know what I will do.”

“What is it?” You asked, she seemed oddly confident.

“I am going to tutor you. As you know I was a bit of a wild girl when I was of your age and a bit younger.” Jan replied somewhat proudly. “I know what girls like, even what a shy girl like Malevus will enjoy. She is going to be like hot wax under your touch.”

“T-thanks… I guess…” You managed to reply, somewhat confused about this.

1/3

>>6078889

Jan wasn’t mad at all, or really disappointed about this. It really seemed like she had understood that her chance for you to take her hand in marriage were quite poor. Because both of you and her. But throwing what was between the two of you away would be a waste, as long as you and Jan were happy and enjoying it, seemingly with the blessing of Malevus.

Still you need to talk with Malevus when you get back home to Dawnholme. It is the right thing to do, after all she asked for honesty.

“So… where shall we begin?” You asked Jan back. She replied with the widest grin you had seen from her.

…


The “lessons” didn’t last long as one of her servants came to inform the two of you that Mayor Fowley was feeling much better and that they would start preparing the lunch. It also gave a small pause for the two of you and a good opportunity to change the subject of these talks.

“We can continue later this evening.” Jan said with a sly smile. “I don’t think we have the privacy before it.”

“Yeah, I think after the dinner, that sounds like a pleasant time.” Was your reply. “Though maybe we could still talk about something else.”

“What is on your mind?” Jan asked.

“Kel’Thuzad… sorry, I can’t get him out of my head.” You said back.

“Don’t worry, what about him?”

“You know more about him than you have told me. What do you know about him?” You said and asked her.

Jan paused for a second before nodding.

“Kel’Thuzad wasn’t just my teacher, he is also a business partner of my family. I knew him even before I enrolled in Dalaran.” Jan told you. “He is a rich man and he will most likely come visit Caer Darrow in the coming weeks.”

“Doesn’t that put you in a bit…”

“Bad situation? Yes, Dalaran won’t like it and both I and they know it.” Jan replied. “I won’t attempt to apprehend him, I could do it and have a good chance at succeeding. But I am loyal to my family…”

Not the most enjoyable situation that is for sure.

“Will Dalaran punish you if you don’t try it?”

“No, Kirin Tor cannot lose two archmages in as many months.” Jan said to you. “They will most likely give me ‘the talk’ and ask me to never repeat what I have done. But outside of that I am not worried and neither should you.”

“Is it all because of necromancy? I could imagine trying to find what life is a goal worthy of achieving.” You asked her.

“It is. Necromancy in all forms is forbidden. We aren’t to tamper with life, if someone dies, it is not our job to deal with. It is the job for the Church of the Holy Light and their priest. Long time ago Kirin Tor and the Church came to an agreement, Dalaran wouldn’t touch resurrecting people, that would fall under what the Church does.” Jan spoke to you.

“So it was a deal with the Church to not study necromancy?” You asked.

2/3

>>6078891

“Yes, well they would have been mad if we did it in any case. Necromancy is evil, it is not within our understanding of the Holy Light and what we humans see as good. Our morals and ethics say that those who die should rest, their souls are in a better place.” Jan said and continued. “Yet those who have died in a battle or have been wronged, the Church does resurrect them if a strong and capable enough priest or a paladin is available.”

“That does sound like something worth studying…” You replied.

“It would be, but the hunger of knowledge would make you ask the important question.” Jan said and lowered her voice slightly.

“Which is?”

“Can you postpone death? Can you live forever?” Jan said with a whisper. “Imagine if that was available. What would the Kings and Queens do? How powerful would an archmage become if they had all the time in the world to study and experiment? How rich someone could become, if they could keep amassing wealth?”

She was right, it was dangerous. The temptation was really apparent.

“Then should I know about it? How to counter it?” You asked.

“For that you have Malevus and the rest of the priests of the Church. It is their job to handle everything that is undead and unholy, it is not our job outside of recognizing it and passing the baton to them.” Jan said and sighed.

Yet again she knew more than what she was telling you. You could see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice. Her tone was secretive. You weren’t talking to your lover right now, but to an archmage of Dalaran.

“I understand… but I fear that I am going to have to face undead again in the future, for I have already faced a few.” You said and got a curious look out of her.

“I don’t understand? You fought the undead? When?” Jan asked you. She seemed quite surprised.

So you told her about the Death Knight.

…

>16


“I can’t believe it, one of the Death Knights so close to Dalaran and we had no idea of it.” Jan said and bit her lip. “Thank you for telling me this Al, I do need to tell Lord Antonidas about this as you have sent the corpse back to Stormwind City. It won't stay a secret forever.”

“You may do that.” You replied.

“Worrisome news, what if more of them are still around?” Jan mused.

“Is there anything I should know about them?” You asked her.

“I am not an expert when it comes to Death Knights, but I can… look into them when I return to Dalaran.” Jan replied back to you.

“Thank you Jan, I would appreciate it.” You said and gave her a warm smile. She really was ready to go far to help you.

You sipped your wine and finished the glass. A slight buzz had appeared and you felt warm from the alcohol inside you.

“Jan, is there anything I should know? I mean about things that aren’t normally studied, things that are restricted or forbidden.” You asked her suddenly.

3/4

File: Jandice Pew Pew.jpg (118 KB, 800x889)

118 KB JPG

>>6078895

Jan looked at you and didn’t reply. Her eyes peered into yours and you looked back. She was hesitating to answer. You needed to prod the information out of her. She was an archmage and as she had shown to you in Tarren Mill, she knew about Fel. She must know more about other stuff as well.

You just needed to ask.


Choose one:
>Fel and demonology
>Necromancy and undead
>Draconic and curses
>Other, write in

QM: 16 wasn’t good enough for an outright answer, so choose only one and maybe you will get an answer. Also gained Jandice the Wingwoman.

>>6078897
>Draconic and curses

Fits in with what we are already learning.

>>6078897
>Draconic and curses

>>6078897
>>Draconic and curses

>>6078897
>>Draconic and curses

>>6078897
>Draconic and curses

We're dealing with Blackrocks in our neck of the woods. That's curses and general warlockery.
At least with demonology, we have Silver Hand paladins to Turn Evil. Decursing is the Mage's/Druid's wheelhouse.

Draconic is self-evident

>>6078897
>>Draconic and curses

"I have dealt with the Blackrocks, there has been a Death Knight in the mountains." You started speaking. "Against undead I have the Silver Hand and their paladins and priests, but against the orcs what do I have?"

You shifted in your seat before continuing.

"Their warlocks might use Fel, again I have my paladins to counter that, but what about curses? Words of power and other magical ailments?" You asked Jan.

"I know only a little about curses… they are a delicate subject far away from general arcane magic." Jan replied.

"My teacher has spoken about how words have power." You said to her.

"Your teacher is correct. They do have power, but harnessing the power, that is the issue." Jan said back.

"I am studying Draconic." You said with your broken and heavily accented Draconic.

"Al, what was that?" Jan asked and was somewhat confused. "Was that… Draconic?"

"Yes, my teacher wants me to study it. It is not an easy language, but according to my teacher, it should help me in the long run." You told Jan.

"You are studying Draconic…" Jan said again, rather surprised about this.

"The words… have power…" You switched to Draconic and then back. "The words have power, that is what I have been told and that is why I am asking you about the curses. If I can understand how they work, curses that is, I could defend myself and find progress in my other studies."

"You are asking a lot Al." Jan replied and leaned back on her chair. "You also keep surprising me time after time. Studying Draconic? I would love to meet your teacher one day."

"They haven't been around, but I will ask them if that could be possible when I see them." You replied and spoke in a way to reveal as little as possible about Lady Nalice.

"Maybe one day, but I will have to disappoint you. I know nothing about Draconic and only little about the curses." Jan said and continued. "We can see if I have anything about them here in my small library, but don't hold your breath."

"Anything you could do, I would appreciate it a lot." You replied. "I fear that my many enemies have multitudes more of magic than I do, I need to be prepared for everything and then a bit more."

"Kirin Tor would be reluctant to help you." Jan said.

"Hence the mages from Underbelly." You said back. "Hence my own studies."

Jan looked at you and nodded. She understood your situation and what obstacles you had.

There was a knock on the door and several seconds later it was opened. One of the servants came to inform you that the lunch was nearly ready. Jan thanked the man and sent him away.

"Good timing, I was already starving." You said to her.

"Me too." Jan said and stood up. "After the others have left we can continue, but shall we go and see how your vassal is doing? He seemed a bit lost around here."

"A small walk before lunch does sound lovely." You said and smiled.

1/2

>>6079626

>10
>7


Chief Ragis had been found in the stables inspecting the horses. The ones here were larger and stronger than the small hobby horses found in Strahnbrad Hills. You could see that he was quite fascinated about them, maybe one could be a worthy gift in the future?

And when it was time for lunch, you found Fowley in a much better condition. Whatever the maid had done to help him had really helped and then the chefs had prepared lentil soup to not upset his stomach again.

"Prince Alric, you will be staying here?" Fowley asked you.

"Yes, we couldn't finish the trade talks before lunch." You replied. "Lady Jandice will be leaving back to Dalaran soon and so it is better to get everything done before that. Besides, I have my own hurries too."

"Then I can only wish the two of you luck." Fowley replied.

As the lunch continued, the four of you casually spoke about what you had decided regarding the patrols, making sure that everyone was on the same page. Then the talks moved to business, trade and developments across the Hillsbrad.

"I heard you sold a lot of your supplies." Fowley asked you.

"Yes, most of what I had saved for the rainy days is now gone and converted into a coin." You replied back to him. "If I were to guess, some of it will return back to be in Durnholde."

"Hmmm… yes the campaign." Fowley said. "Troops are moving and so is the coin."

You could feel that he had some sort of a plan in mind.

"We are living in a great period for trade, not in years have we had this much trade and prosperity in Hillsbrad. Gone are the stagnant times when bandits ruled the roads." Fowley spoke to you.

"You have something planned?" You asked him.

"Yes, I am feeling adventurous." Fowley replied to you. "I have a proposition."

"Which is?" You asked again.

"When you arrive to Durnholde, can you speak with Lord Blackmoore and invite him to join the Darrowmere League." Fowley asked you.

As a reply you nearly choked on your wine. That was something you hadn't expected to hear from Fowley at all. The small bookish man had surprised you rather well.

"But why?" You succeeded in asking.

"Durnholde has the coin from their gladiator games, they have troops and camps to feed. We meanwhile have the food and supplies to provide them." Fowley said to you. "That is my speciality. Yours are soldiers, you can handle the defence side of talks."

You really hadn't expected that from Fowley. As a request it was a lot, maybe too much. You already had the trade caravans and market fairs organised so the trade was there. And you personally had the alliance with Blackmoore. Dragging Darrowmere League further into this could tie you with Blackmoore more closely which could be a boon, yet it could be a negative. There are many sides to this to take in account.

2/2

>>6079628


>There are both economic and defensive benefits in inviting Durnholde and Blackmoore into the Darrowmere League. You will do it.
>Existing arrangements could be strengthened, but first you should get Lady Barov on board. That is your priority.
>You would prefer to strengthen the League as is. Give a neutral answer and don't promise anything.
>Decline outright. Let Fowley know what sort of a man Blackmoore is. Having him aboard would be a folly in making.
>Other, write in.

Let them know of Garithos' plan to surpass Blackmoore:
>Yes, they should know about it
>No, it is just intel and less people know about it, the better

QM: The rolls were economic prosperity of Hillsbrad and Fowley's idea.

>>6079630
>>There are both economic and defensive benefits in inviting Durnholde and Blackmoore into the Darrowmere League. You will do it.
>Yes, they should know about it

>>6079630
>>There are both economic and defensive benefits in inviting Durnholde and Blackmoore into the Darrowmere League. You will do it.
>Yes, they should know about it

>>6079630
>>There are both economic and defensive benefits in inviting Durnholde and Blackmoore into the Darrowmere League. You will do it.
>Yes, they should know about it

Someone need to check Fowley stomach

>>6079630

>Other, write in
Suggest he come with us to help make the offer, or atleast so our Naturalist mage can take a look at him in Dawnholme and we can discuss further since this is a big ask.

I thought we didn't want to add Durnholde to the league until after Thrall attacked to lessen the impact on our own political image? Though I'd be open to discussing whether or not that would be the case anyways if Alrics alliance with Blackmoore is already in the open after the capital investigation over Thrall. Then do we end up taking more measures to defend against Thrall, or more to salvage the situation as best we can like getting enough to supplies to feed refugees who we eventually have to help evacuate from the area while guarding the bridge. Probably the latter. Might be worth it to be in a better position to salvage things?

Can we make the benefits of getting Durnholde into the League while Blackmoores position is under threat from Garithos and then Thrall worth it?

Justify running wargames or field exercises of troops evacuating people against the possibility of syndicate warlocks breaking out the camps and taking control of the orcs. Since we can't say it's Thrall syndicate warlocks plot could at least sound plausible, especially after the ballsy winter assassin episode.

>Yes, they should know about it

Id suppose their reaction would be to encourage that Alric get Durnholde into the League. Maybe a shift in the Barovs to be more against Garithos, which if it went up all the way to the patriarch could be nice. Oh of course, Dalaran wants to study the orcs and see if they can return to normal. Antonidas implied that. They DEFINITELY don't want the 'Kill the orc's faction in charge, and Archimage Jandice is going to talk with him soon anyways. Could see some Dalaran support directly or otherwise.

Also I had wanted to hear her opinion on Kael's offer and plans lol.

>>6079816
We did recently hire that Naturalist mage lady. Ask him to come down with us to get checked out. Inb4 arsenic poisoning. Lead? Some plant?

>>6079630
>>6079816
Support, especially the man's poor stomach.
Really though, I feel the proposition to Durnholde and Blackmoore should wait until after the gnolls expedition concludes. If Garithos and the Regional Defenders catch wind that a subject of the Alliance-military has partnered with Alric and Alterac, then Garithos has just been handed a legitimate reason to usurp Blackmoore.

>>6079855
Whatever it is, it needs to be checked. For that matter maybe his culinary staff or the ones that bring food to his culinary staff in Tarren Mill should be checked.

I mean the Syndicate and others have reason for want us dead. And they have killed before.

>>6079924
Maybe we could talk with Garithos about it when we are done with the gnoll campaign and the inevitable orc fallout.

Fowley has had physicians and doctors under a payroll checking him regularly. He has been avoiding dishes with a lot of meat and gone nearly fully vegan in process. It has helped, but from time to time his stomach issues return. Now having Madam Judy check on him is possible, she might catch something others haven't caught before. No need a vote for that, when Alric returns to Dawnholme we can have that happen.

Now there won't be an update today, I am too tired to write it, but with the vote being quite unanimous I could use another vote regarding it as you lot did have a good point.


Talk with Blackmoore regarding Darrowmere League and inviting him into it:
>Before the campaign, tie a stronger relationship with Blackmoore and try to make his standing stronger through that.
>After the campaign when you know if Garithos has tried anything and you know where everyone is standing.

>>6080316
>After the campaign when you know if Garithos has tried anything and you know where everyone is standing.
Until Garithos has departed in my view, but I'll work with the unfolding story.

>>6080316
>>After the campaign when you know if Garithos has tried anything and you know where everyone is standing.

>>6080316
>>After the campaign when you know if Garithos has tried anything and you know where everyone is standing.

"I will bring it up, but only after the campaign is finished." You said back to him and saw his eyes brighten up. "Because there is an issue that needs to be resolved first."

You put down your utensils and supped a bit of wine.

"Or preferably doesn't come up." You continued.

"Prince Alric, what are you talking about?" Jandice asked. She had switched back to her more cordial self now with others present around the table.

"I have intelligence that suggests Garithos wants to surpass and replace Blackmoore." You told them.

None of them reacted until Chief Ragis spoke first.

"This Garithos tried to take you down before?" He asked you.

"Yes, Lord Colonel Othmar Garithos is the current commander of Regional Defenders and now he has put his eyes on Durnholde Keep." You said back to him.

"That man is a cretin!" Fowley shouted. "Prince Alric, please tell us everything you know."

Fowley had been against Garithos and his plans back in the winter in Southshore, no wonder he was more than pissed. Now you told them everything you could, leaving details of the personal alliance between Blackmoore and you aside, you did emphasise the good relationship and the trade that existed. What the Garithos' plans were, were then reflected against them.

"It is good that you told us that. I need to send a letter to Burnside…" Fowley replied.

"No, don't do that. Less people know the better. I am not sure if I am even going to tell Blackmoore, he is too volatile for things like this." You said and waved the idea away. "I will have to watch and see if anything comes up and be prepared for Garithos making his move. Less successful he is during the campaign the better, it needs to be Alterac that gets the win against the gnolls or Durnholde itself."

"That… that is true." Fowley replied. "I was too hasty."

"Don't worry about it Mayor Fowley, and don't stress about it. I can't have you get your stomach upset." You said to him.

"Don't worry about my stomach." Fowley said back.

"I will worry about it. In fact, I have hired the services of a naturalist. Lady Martin, knows her herbs and knows healing magic. When I return back to Dawnholme, I will send her to visit you." You told him.

"You don't need to do that Prince Alric." Fowley said. "I have already paid too much for physicians and besides the issues come and go."

"I will send her, end of story."

"Fine, have it your way." Fowley relented.

Good, that was one thing tied up. Now just to finish the lunch.

1/2

>>6080914

You had eaten and spoken more with Fowley, Ragis and Jandice about Durnholde until it was time for Fowley and Ragis to leave. Giving orders to Ragis, he would tell Sir Cyrus to deliver you armour and meagre belongings in Tarren Mill to Dawnholme. You will ride back home tomorrow and then you would go see if the orc was in any brighter mood to talk, or just to listen to you talking.

Watching as the Mayor and the Chief left, Jandice turned to talk to you.

"Now what? Shall we go see if my books have anything about curses?" Jandice asked.

Yes, you had planned on doing that, but you still had something else in mind.


Choose two:
>Go see her book collection and see if there is anything useful there regarding curses or other magic. Maybe demonstrate setting Cinder Sword on fire to her.
>You had planned on speaking about her family with her. How does her siblings see you and of her parents have switched opinions about you.
>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>Other, write in.

QM: Choose two to go through first. The third option will be handled after the first two are done.

>>6080915
>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>Go see her book collection and see if there is anything useful there regarding curses or other magic. Maybe demonstrate setting Cinder Sword on fire to her.

We already showed her the bonfire, time to show more party tricks to ignite her.

>>6080915
>>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>Go see her book collection and see if there is anything useful there regarding curses or other magic. Maybe demonstrate setting Cinder Sword on fire to her.

>>6080915
>>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.
>>Go see her book collection and see if there is anything useful there regarding curses or other magic. Maybe demonstrate setting Cinder Sword on fire to her.

>>6080915
>>Go see her book collection and see if there is anything useful there regarding curses or other magic. Maybe demonstrate setting Cinder Sword on fire to her.
>Talk about Prince Kael’thas, what he had offered to you for the Durnholde Campaign and ask what Jandice thinks about him and his plans.

Apologies, it is yet another episode of QM is too tired to write an update after a long day at work. Alric was going to talk about Kael and then demonstrate some magic. And for that, could I have a simple roll. Higher is better, but there is a chance for a fumble.


>3d10, Best of three
>Higher the better

Burn Fel in progress:
>Yes
>No

Rolled 4, 3, 7 = 14 (3d10)

>>6081556
Burn Fel in progress:
>no

What could go wrong in a magically enchanted house and releasing small amounts of Fel.. uh oh. Flying books and other poltergeists that attack people like in Scholomance?

Rolled 8, 6, 7 = 21 (3d10)

>>6081556
>No

Rolled 2, 4, 10 = 16 (3d10)

>>6081556

“Yes, but I was thinking of something else first.” You said to her and shrugged.

“What is it then?”

“I have learned a new trick. Didn’t think it would be possible, but here we are.” You told her and on purpose didn’t really explain yourself.

“Al, you are being a bit annoying right now.” Jan replied to you.

“Alright, alright. You know how Cinder Sword doesn’t burn, it just heats up and sheds embers? Well it wasn’t supposed to be like that originally, but the enchanters in Stormwind messed up and failed to get it to burst on fire on its own.” You told her and continued. “I have learned how to do that.”

“To set your sword on fire?”

“Yep. I did that a bit on the accident at first, but now I know how to do it on command.” You said and continued. “Can I show it to you, is it even possible here… you know without people seeing?”

“In the garden, sure we can do that first.” Jan said and seemed thoughtful for a second. “You know where it is, go there first and I will join you shortly.”

“You have a plan, don’t you?”

“Might have.” Jan said and grinned.

She had a plan, probably something fun on her mind.

“Well do what you need to do, I will go to the garden first.”

…

>21, Crit success!


The garden behind the estates was quite a large one and in the middle of it was a small clearing surrounded by tall well maintained bushes. It seemed like the trope of large gardens behind estates had some actual truth behind it.

Having drawn the Cinder Sword, you took several swings with it to start heating it up. Slowly the dull grey of the blade turned red, orange and white of heated metal, each swing shedding more and more of embers.

“I see you are already ready.” Jan said to you as she walked to the clearing.

Now you saw what was her plan, she had changed her clothes from the archmage's robes and the dress she wore to her trousers and shirt she preferred to wear when actually doing something more athletic, like fencing. As she had her fencing sword by her side.

“And I see that you have changed your clothes… and you have your sword.” You replied back to her.

“If you are going to show me your new trick with your sword, let me be dressed for the occasion.” Jan said and grinned. “Now let’s see what you have learned.”

1/2

File: Cinder Sword.jpg (169 KB, 1032x1175)

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>>6082289

“Alright, like I said they messed up when they made this sword, at least according to King Varian.” You told her and took a ready stance, pointing the Cinder Sword ahead of you. “But I can do this nowadays.”

With a snap of your left hand, a small green flame appeared on the tip of the Cinder Sword and immediately turned back into normal fire. The liquid fire stayed on the tip for a second or two before creeping up the blade, slowly reaching the hilt. Cinder Sword had never burned you, you knew it was really hot, but for some reason you weren’t burned. Neither did your own fire burn you or jump past the hilt on your hand and arm. It knew how to behave.

The flames licked upwards as droplets of the fire dropped off the blade on the gravel. It burned there without much effort from you to keep it alive, some concentration was needed, but not that much.

“That seemed easy, at least easier than the bonfire.” Jan commented and tilted her head a bit as she walked around you, observing the sword and the fire. “You are controlling it without much effort.”

“This isn’t that difficult of a trick.” You said back to her.

“I can see that, I can feel that.” She replied. “To control your mana that well and most importantly keeping it stable. You have improved since Tarren Mill.”

“Thank you Jan.” You said and concentrated on your blade again, the flames slowly died down and retracted back down the blade before disappearing completely.

“Now, let’s not waste any time.” Jan said and smirked as she drew her fencing sword. “Prepare yourself Al.”

“Are you serious?” You asked. Oh this was her idea. You watched as she took a low ready stance, her fencing sword being just as long as Cinder Sword, but definitely not as heavy or big. “This isn’t a fair match and these are real blades.”

“Oh I know, the question is, are you that big of a chicken to say no to this?” Jan’s tone was a bit mocking. “Oh will I have to claim the victory through you surrendering?”

Alright, she got you. But you weren’t going to fight that seriously, these were real blades after all. Moving your left hand on the hilt of your sword, you raised it above your head and prepared yourself. Now just to play it safe and see how good she really is with her much thinner blade.


>3d10, Best of three
>DC 12, Crit 23

QM: It was a good enough of a roll for a Crit, I decided that.

Rolled 6, 6, 7 = 19 (3d10)

>>6082292

Rolled 8, 7, 1 = 16 (3d10)

>>6082292

Rolled 1, 4, 3 = 8 (3d10)

>>6082292
Lets go fencing, not overpowering

>>6081620
>>6082334
my rolls, wow.

>19, Success!


“I will let you go first.” You said.

Jan didn’t need more encouragement as she took several steps closer and brought her blade down to slash at you. The speed the blade moved did surprise you a bit, but your own parry found it in any case. Jan moved to a series of jabs, forcing you to backpedal as you kept parrying her blade. There the weight and size difference of the Cinder Sword really did become apparent, it was really easy to push her fencing sword aside.

Another set of slashes were easily parried and you chose to take the initiative. Parrying and knocking her blade away from you, your riposte went for her head and would have hit her if not for you holding back.

“That was close.” Jan replied to you, the tip of your sword just inches off her nose.

“That is the difference between our weapons, don’t go into a longsword fight with just a fencing blade.” You said to her. “In a fair fight, you are at a disadvantage.”

“Who said I would fight fair?” She smirked back.

At the periphery of your vision, you saw a blade coming at you. Spinning on your heels, you parried it just in time to find out that you were assailed by another Jan.

“Illusion!” You shouted out and turned to look at the original Jan, but she had disappeared.

“Are you sure it is an illusion?” Jan’s voice came out behind you.

You turned around and saw her standing there. Now there were two of them opposing you.

“Prepare yourself!” Jan said and both of them took their ready stances.

Which one of them was the illusion? Are they both illusions? You cursed in your mind how sensing magic had become an obstacle for you during your training. Both of you took this seriously enough to not muck around, so you had the feeling that Jan might have a trick or two planned.

And then both of them approached you, blades ready to attack.


>3d10, Best of three
>DC 14, Crit 22

Rolled 7, 2, 7 = 16 (3d10)

>>6082676
Hmm how about Alric plays a trick or two? Good ol flashbang does work pretty well, but we don't know which one is real. Since we've already got the Cinder Sword lit, what if we pump more mana into it to see if we can make it even hotter and brighter until Jan starts feeling the heat.

Rolled 1, 4, 7 = 12 (3d10)

>>6082676
After this fight what would jandices martial skill be?

>>6082694

Her Martial would be 3, so on par with most Footmen. But she is a fencer and not a proper swordwoman, one is a sport and other serious battlefield matter.

Rolled 8, 4, 9 = 21 (3d10)

>>6082676

So close for the Crit, you know what, I will allow one more roll. Let's see if it hits the mark.

Rolled 8, 6, 7 = 21 (3d10)

>>6082741
Well here goes

>21, Success!


First one came at you, forcing you to stay on defence. A parry and then another before the second Jan tried to get through you. Cinder Sword clashed with her fencing blade, shedding sparks and embers on the gravel beneath your feet. The two Jans took turns at trying to find an opening, but you managed to keep them away from you.

And then third Jan entered the fray.

The pressure started to pile up. Having to defend against three of them was starting to be a bit too much for you. You were a good duelist, but having to fight against many foes without your shield and armour was a hurdle.

But as you kept blocking, parrying and moving, you realised something very important. The three Jans took turns at attacking you, they didn’t really try to attack at the same time and that made sense. Jan was a fencer, not a footman. If these were illusions, they knew as much as she did. It was probably the only reason why you were still holding out, to win you needed an opening.

Parrying one of the blades, you swept the air in front of you a couple of times to buy some time and space for your own plan to happen. You concentrated within your left hand for a few seconds before trailing it behind one swing of yours, letting the liquid fire out of your hand in an arc. Sparks and embers formed between you and the three Jans, separating you from her and allowing you to reset the situation and the duel. Taking a couple deep breaths, you raised your sword above your head and prepared for another go.

“Illusions… that is smart.” You said to them.

“To fool the eyes and the mind.” One of them replied.

“But to defeat you, I don’t think that is enough.” Second one of them replied.

“To think you used your flames to push me back.” Third one of them replied.

The wind sighed around you and the three Jans disappeared in front of you, turning into a cloud of purple smoke and lighting before dispersing near immediately. They were all illusions? Then where is the real one?

“To think that I thought I could defeat you…” The voice of Jan appeared behind you. Turning around, you saw her standing there next to one of the tall bushes. She was wearing her purple dress and archmage’s robes.

“You weren’t here in the first place?” You asked her and sheathed your sword.

“Never were, you were talking with my illusion all this time. I just needed a bit of time to make you think that I had changed my clothes.” Jan said and smiled. “And you bought it…”

“You fooled me! If you wanted to spar with me, you could have just asked me in the first place…” You said back to her.

“Sorry, it was safer this way. My illusions can’t hurt you and if you had actually cut one, I would have loved to see your shocked face.” Jan chuckled.

“Cruel, that is just cruel…”

“No, but seriously. You were right, these are real blades. I can’t have that happen, a diplomatic incident in the works.” Jan said to you and continued. “Besides, you are going to a war a bit of warmup doesn’t hurt at all.”

1/3

>>6083058

“You are right about that.” You said back to her. “Still you could have just asked me.”

“What is done is done.” Jan replied. “Shall we head inside and get some refreshments? We can then look at the books.”

“If the water is an illusion as well, then I don’t know what I will do with you…”

…

The break was much needed, having drank several glasses of wine had made you a bit dehydrated and then the light sparring and showing off your new spell had brought a sweat to your skin.

And Jan was right, it was good that you had some sparring before the campaign, especially as you are most likely going to end up fighting multiple gnolls during it.

Now in the small library, Jan seemed thoughtful as she looked at the bookcases. Then with a flick of her hand, one of them floated out and landed on her hands.

“This one might have something useful to you.” Jan said to you before passing the book to you. “Though it is in Darnassian…”

“I need to ask Malevus to translate it for me then…” You said and continued. “Thank you, I appreciate this a lot.”

The book was really old, the covers seemed rather worn and most likely countless hands have handled it and eyes read it.

“I don’t think my library has anything else useful here… But in Dalaran, I will look if I can find something else to send you.” Jan said to you.

“Don’t push your luck, I don’t want Kirin Tor to ask more questions than they already do.” You said back to her.

“I won’t and if someone asks me, I am an archmage, I have my own research to do.” Jan said and shrugged.

You could only shrug back as a reply. She knew Dalaran better than you did after all.

“Speaking of Kirin Tor, Prince Kael’thas didn’t just warn me about Kel’thuzad, he had an offer.” You said to her.

“Oh, what does the wily Prince have in mind?” Jan asked back.

You told her what he had offered to you. Troops, specialists form Quel’thalas. And in return he had asked for a favour, a strong favour. You had declined his offer, after all you can’t buy a pig in a poke.

“Prince Kael’s position is his birthright, he is the heir to Quel’thalas.” Jan said to you and continued. “But even an elven Prince needs to work hard to stay afloat in Dalaran. Magic is one hell of an equaliser.”

2/3

>>6083061

Jan gave you a curious look as she thought what to say next.

“He has his plans, many plans. I have had the privilege to talk with him quite many times and every time it seems like he had something else in mind. Some plans regarding Barovs, or my position in Dalaran. He just doesn’t say it outright.” Jan told you.

“He is always scheming?”

“Always, but the funny thing is, I don’t think he never has had ill will or bad intentions behind his plans. He is very much one of those rising tide lifts all boats type of a person.” Jan told you.

“But he has the biggest boat.” You replied.

“Of course.” Was Jan’s short reply.

“I don’t think he had any malice or ill meanings hidden in that offer of his, but the favour… it would be a bit too much. I can’t accept something that I don’t know, at least I avoid making such choices.” You said to Jan.

“I would have taken the offer. If what you said about Lord Garithos is correct, I would stack the odds as much as possible into your own favour.” Jan said to you and continued. “Whatever Prince Kael has in his mind, it won’t be as bad as allowing Lord Garithos to win.”

“Well what is done is done, I have already sent my reply weeks ago.” You said to her. “And if there was a way to contact him, how would that look? Going back on my decision?”

“You are right…” Jan lamented. “What is done is done…”

“Maybe next time?” You said and shrugged.

“Maybe…” Jan shrugged back. “Do you think that you have the soldiers to take the victory needed in Durnholde?”


>For the decisive battle and the Vanguard, for a long war of attrition, no.
>You won’t be alone, you can count Durnholders to have your back.
>Probably not, but you just need to lose less than Regional Defenders do. Can they call it a victory if half of them are dead or wounded?
>No, but you are going to find a way to level the playing field.
>Other, write in.

QM: What do you think, can you win? The roll was pretty good, but Crit would have given you a bit different result.

>>6083065
>>No, but you are going to find a way to level the playing field.

>>6083065
tfw wanted the Kael favor for that sweet elven specialists unit. I bet it was rangers and we might have gotten to see a Windrunner sister. God that would have wiped the smug look right off Garithos's face.

>For the decisive battle and the Vanguard, for a long war of attrition, no.
>Other, write in.

We want to use Alric's rank as a Prince, and his good relation with Durnholde, to take command or atleast establish his influence on the campaign. Then try to make use of our strength in experienced troops and talented officers, against the more numerous and green Regional Defenders with that Garithos temper.

We want to set the pace and make it rigorous. Form a rivalry of outdoing each other from the start. Get them to exhaust their green troops in matching our commitment to being mobile in the search for the enemy's heart. Hope Madam Judy can handle any casualties or bad luck we encounter, plus see what the mages can really do.

Give some Officers and allies a chance to shine by putting together groups for hunting down the main gnoll encampment. Take first blood against some gnoll scouts to show off if we can. If it gets the RD to do some heavy lifting and shedding of blood in the scouting and tanking ambushes the gnolls will have prepared so much the better. Bring about the decisive battle before we get worn down, and get the head of the enemy leader.

Atleast thats how I'd see the best odds of evening the playing field.

>>6083065
>>For the decisive battle and the Vanguard, for a long war of attrition, no.
>>You won’t be alone, you can count Durnholders to have your back.
I think anons forget that no one wants Garithos in charge especeally after the bullshit he pulled last time he got in charge.

I will allow the voting continue till tomorrow, but I will ask for a simple 1d10 roll. This is for Barovs.


>1d10
>Best of three

Rolled 8 (1d10)

>>6083550

Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>6083550
Is this vote likely to impact her or the Barovs thinking? That reminds me I was thinking about asking her about mages in battle. I wonder how big a spell our 3 Dalaran underbelly mages could make if they worked on one big spell.

Rolled 2 (1d10)

>>6083550

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“Enough for decisive battle or for the vanguard. I have skilled veterans, they can throw their weight around more than the regulars or the green rookies Regional Defenders or Durnholders have. And speaking of them, I am going to throw my own status and my reputation in to take either command of the whole campaign or at least take command over the Durnholders.” You told Jan. “I am a Prince, Garithos is just a Lord and as long as Blackmoore endorses this, Garithos has very little to argue back.”

“Just don’t play your cards too early.” Jan warned you.

“That is something I need to avoid.” You said and sighed. “But when it comes to the actual fighting, I am quite hopeful. I do have my mages with me, all three of them and a couple students of theirs.”

That got her interest as she gave you a curious look.

“One of them is a pyromancer and second one is a bog standard arcanist, and the third one is the naturalist.” You told her. “It isn’t that much, but maybe a well applied fireball can turn the tide of the battle?”

“Or to counter their shamans…” Jan mused back.

“Like Jaina countered the one we faced back then.” You replied.

“I told you, magic is one hell of an equaliser.” Jan said and chuckled.

“You are right about that.” You smiled back at her.

…

>8


You ended up speaking with her about magic for a couple of hours. Just everything about it, small things, bigger things. It was just fun to discuss it outside of your usual studying sessions, because Lady Nalice was quite strict and Eligius followed her curriculum really closely. It didn’t hurt that one of her servants had brought the two of you more wine to drink.

As much as you would have liked to just talk about magic, you did have one more thing to talk about.

“Hey Jan, during your visit back home… what did your family say about me?” You asked her somewhat carefully.

“My father, he doesn’t like that I associate with a Perenolde like you nor is my mother that happy about it either.” Jan said and was clearly unhappy for the change of subject. “Especially when I failed to get the oil deal out of you.”

“I hope I haven’t caused any issues to you with your family.” You said to her.

“No, you haven’t. It is just what it is. My parents aren’t going to change their minds that easily, but if they are to benefit from something… that does change their mind quite easily.” She said to you.

“Oh I just need to learn how to transmute gold then.” You jested.

Jan laughed, your joke had worked.

“If it was that easy… and please don’t try to research that, Kirin Tor would hunt you down.” Jan chuckled and warned you.

“That is forbidden as well?”

“Extremely.”

“How about your siblings then?” You asked and went back to the subject.

“Same as before really. Weldon is nonchalant about everything, he just loves his horses too much to be bothered with anything else, but Alexi…” Jan started to tell you.

“What about him? He seemed rather interested in me?” You asked her.

1/2

>>6083712

“He has teased me about you.” Jan confessed. “Spending so much time with that Alteraci Prince…”

“Does he know?” You asked her.

“No, and when he learned that we didn’t get the oil, he stopped the teasing. Remember when I told you about our reputation, willingness to go far to get what we want.” Jan told you and continued. “But of my family, he is likely the most willing to do business with you. Unless you need horses that is…”

“I will keep that in mind…” You replied to her and chuckled. “We just need to be at the right place at the right time for that to happen.”

“Yeah, Tarren Mill and this estate is somewhat of my responsibility.” Jan said. “Their responsibilities are up north.”

That did give you an idea. Maybe you should meet with her family, after all you are technically neighbours. But what would be the situation suitable for the meeting? The Alliance meeting in Stormwind City? Here in Tarren Mill? “Accidental” happy coincidence of all of you in the same place at the same time? Or was it too early? If Jan hadn’t managed to get the trade or oil deals done with you, what leverage would you have? What would be your market value?


>Invite her and her family to join you in Stormwind City for the large Alliance meeting planned later this summer.
>Ask her to arrange a meeting with her family here in Tarren Mill. It would be closer to your home and less travel for them.
>Maybe an “unplanned” meeting in Dalaran would be good to have? A happy coincidence that all of you are in the same place at the same time.
>It is a bit too early to bring the larger Barov family together. Until you have gotten Jandice to agree to be part of Darrowmere League, you don’t have the necessary leverage in potential negotiations.
>Other, write in.

QM: Next is the last social update with Jandice. I got the update done today!

>>6083714
>Invite her and her family to join you in Stormwind City for the large Alliance meeting planned later this summer.
>Maybe an “unplanned” meeting in Dalaran would be good to have? A happy coincidence that all of you are in the same place at the same time.

The Barovs have many allies in the Alliance that would seek Alterac being brought low again, particularly the King Varian after we took in his refugees. Stormwind seems to be a place where they would feel most secure, and therefore it might be a good place to begin openly showing interest, if not courtesy. Alexei was a pompous idiot before though.

>>6083714
Oh right Medivh I was wondering about something. Was part of the reason for taking over Strahnbrad Hills that Alric was looking for a hidden passage to connect with Strahnbrad? A mountain/hill route that didn't require going through what was bandit territory? I feel like that was something they were looking for and we forgot, unless I am misremembering.

I wonder if we will see Calia and if the Calianons will spring up out of the woodwork to try for a coup as passions reignite. Some kind of polygon shaped romance map? The Political Marriage to secure the future of Alterac justification? Or a soap opera reveal that Calia was actually pregnant. What kind of move will Katrana make against Jandice and her family since she knows Jan and Alric were having a fling. Or will Sir Cyrus have spotted the Malevus and Alric development. I wonder if we will be able to see VanCleef. Or maybe we encounter some pirates or an alterac island colony on the ship ride down taking shelter from a storm over the waters.

See Nalice again and hopefully bring her back home. Plus we might see Arthas, and Jaina again. It would be good to mend Alric's bond with Jaina. Maybe go ahead and tell her about the whole fel thing, as she probably suspects and can connect some dots. Plus Alric ended up telling Jandice about it anyways. Apologize, tell her whats what atleast without exposing Nalice. Jaina is a pretty strong ally and good friend after all. The Dalaran meeting would be nice for that too. Though Dalaran also means we could visit Kael.

We could really use the political power of an ally in the alliance like the Barovs. Otherwise Alric is never getting permission to retake Alterac. Unless we can renegotiate some of the oil that we might keep for personal use I have a few ideas. Royal privileges in the Alliance legalism might be worth something, but that might require some kind of political marriage, which I'm not against but it would require some doing. Wiklish's inventions, the geared speed regulators is a solid invention and with more funding he could make a lot more. Third idea, very classic, avoiding alliance taxes which seem to be a pretty heavy burden right now if I recall. Also if we can clear the darrowmere river of that troll dam then access to that would be valuable.

Could we offer ourselves in a mercenary sort of way with military prowess against banditry, or piracy? Or as a middle man with a way to getting some dark iron goods. Funny thought, if there were claimants to the ancient human Arathi Empire. Though other Perenolde Alteraci claims to nearby land might be of interest anyways. Like Durnholde. Could use a good look at what issues alliance nobility are really enduring right now.

>>6083714
>>Maybe an “unplanned” meeting in Dalaran would be good to have? A happy coincidence that all of you are in the same place at the same time.

>>6083714
>>Invite her and her family to join you in Stormwind City for the large Alliance meeting planned later this summer.
>>Maybe an “unplanned” meeting in Dalaran would be good to have? A happy coincidence that all of you are in the same place at the same time.

No update today and no need for any rolls either. I don't even have anything clever or fun to ask from you. No "X is for write ins" in mind. I will try to get the update out as soon as possible tomorrow so the voting continues.

>>6083951

Original goal was to find a way through the mountains into Strahnbrad, but the discovery of oil and finding the trolls occupying the mountains have put that on a back-burner a bit. But you did find out that the river upstream is somewhat blocked by flotsam/dam, if you could clear that, you could go around the mountains instead of over them. Though for that you need ships.

“I am not sure if meeting your parents and family as planned is the right thing to do.” You said to Jan and continued. “But meeting them ‘unplanned’? Maybe in Dalaran, a happy coincidence that all of us are in the same place at the same time?”

“That could work, they just need a reason to travel there and my parents don’t do much travelling nowadays.” Jan said and sighed.

“Maybe Stormwind City then? I have heard that a meeting between the Kings and Lords of the Alliance is being planned to happen some time later this summer.” You suggested to Jan. “Do you want to come? Could be a way to get your family there as well.”

“To Stormwind? Now that doesn’t sound like a bad idea, I haven’t visited the city in years.” Jan replied to you. “And having such a meeting as the reason to visit Stormwind City, maybe my parents could actually travel there.”

“Now I haven’t heard when it will be held, just that the meeting has been planned, so I will need to send you a letter when anything actually comes up.” You said to her.

“At least I know to keep my own ears open now.” Jan said.

“Maybe carefully prod Lord Antonidas? Become an official representative of Dalaran?” You suggested.

“Nah, Lord Antonidas will choose someone else, if not coming there personally.” Jan said and waved the idea away. “I.. we will find a way, I am sure of that.”

“Of course…” You replied back and smiled. “But now… how about dinner? And then maybe… some quality time?”

“I am already starving.” Jan winked back.

…

…

…

The next morning came too fast.

As did the need to dress up and go eat some breakfast.

If plausible, you would have stayed with Jan in the bed for longer, but that wasn’t to be. After an evening spent with a lovely dinner, bath together, long sweet talks with a few glasses of wine between and then sharing the bed, you felt reborn. Having found satisfaction and all that pent up want for Jan’s touch had been released.

Maybe it was the last time the two of you shared the bed together? You didn’t know when you could see her again and if then you would have a chance to be with her. And most importantly you need to talk with Malevus about all of this.

“I don’t want you to go.” Jan said to you as she watched you prepare Epona for the ride back home.

“I don’t want to leave, but duty calls… my people call… and the orc in my dungeon calls.” You said to her and finished checking the saddle.

“Oh I know, we are two busy souls with our own tasks and tribulations.” Jan said to you and stepped closer.

Looking around and making sure that no one was watching, she leaned in and gave you a kiss.

“Stay safe Al and don’t get hurt. You have so much ahead of you, don’t throw it away recklessly.” Jan said to you and continued. “Because I want to share the bed with my lover again in the future.”

You smiled back at her and took hold of her hands.

1/2

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>>6085113

“Don’t worry, I have my bodyguards and the last time the gnolls and I faced each other, I didn’t have my armour or the fire burning inside of me.” You told her. “I have no intentions of losing or getting hurt.”

“Now that is the Al I know.” Jan replied and smirked. “Now go, don’t let me keep you here. Otherwise these goodbyes turn even more awkward…”

You let go of her hands and mounted your horse. Checking that you had everything with you, you gave her one last glance.

“At latest, see you in Stormwind City.” You said to her. “I’m sure of that.”

“See you in the future Al!” Jan shouted as you rode away and picked up speed. Soon Epona was galloping away.

You didn’t hear her whisper to herself that she still loved you.

…

The ride from the Barov estates to Dawnholme took you till the mid afternoon. The weather had stayed good, it was warm and only a couple odd clouds were in the sky. Farmers and other peasants stopped to watch and see who was the lone rider, before realising that it was you. They bowed and greeted you with you finding a bit of time to exchange a couple words here and there with them.

But reaching your home, you found Sir Gravis already waiting for you outside the stables. You noticed the horse cart used to transport the orc was here as was Sir Cyrus. So both the orc and your belongings were already here.

“Prince Alric.” Sir Gravis greeted you. “Did the talks with Lady Barov go well?”

His tone didn’t betray his intentions, he seemed genuinely curious about the supposed talks.

“They did, I do believe that Alterac and Barovs are one step closer in forging a more lasting alliance.” You told him as you dismounted your horse and passed the reins the him. “How is the orc?”

“In the dungeon, in the most secure cell. Everything went without any issues and we covered the orc with a tarp before moving it here. The word hasn’t spread, at least not yet.” He told you.

“Oh good, good job Sir Gravis.” You said to him and gave him an agreeing nod.

“Thank you Prince Alric.” He said and bowed.

Now then, the orc. Or maybe you should talk with others first?


>Get it out of the way. Talk with Malevus about Jandice and you being lovers. You want to have things to be clear between you and her.
>Talk with Normand Garside. You and him need to be on the same page when it comes to the orc and the events around it.
>Go see the orc, maybe stare at it for a while. You are going to find a way to learn what the orc knows.
>Other, write in.

>>6085114
Is Nalice back? Or does Cyrus speak Orcish?

Otherwise
>Talk with Normand Garside. You and him need to be on the same page when it comes to the orc and the events around it.

>>6085121

Lady Nalice is still in Stormwind City and Sir Cyrus doesn't sadly speak Orcish.

>>6085114
>Talk with Normand Garside. You and him need to be on the same page when it comes to the orc and the events around it.

>Other, write in.
Go check with the three mages. If anyone here has a decent chance of knowing orcish I'd imagine its some dalaran mages? That said one of them might be a spy for Dalaran. Could be good to see if Cyrus can spot something.

Is there a week or two before campaign to do another magic training session with Eligius? It would be nice to learn a new spell since people didnt want to actually try the physical fel boost without Nalice.

>>6085114
>>Talk with Normand Garside. You and him need to be on the same page when it comes to the orc and the events around it.
Yo

>>6085114
>>Talk with Normand Garside. You and him need to be on the same page when it comes to the orc and the events around it.
Its pointless to talk with the orc unless we find someone who can understand him.

>>6085162
I suppose its possible Eligius might have tried to learn some. The potential of finding orcish writing about their warlock techniques. That said, if one of the Dalaran mages did know orcish it would make me wonder if that one was the spy.

Finally caught up with the quest, it's nice to see it's still going. And I want to express my disappointment in people that just want to fuck everything that moves at the expense of Alric's personal integrity, even if Calia was a useless wallflower. I think the consequences of doing such things need to be present and need to be more severe. Imagine if the Menethils were to find out that you dishonored her not once but twice?

“I will talk with Normand first.” You said to Sir Gravis and switched to a bit more cautious tone. “I presume he wasn’t exactly happy about the orc?”

“He is more than concerned, but when he saw how well we had wrapped the orc up in chains, he stopped worrying too much.” Your knight replied to you. “But you know, an orc in Alterac…”

“I get it, thankfully capturing one is a bit different to allying with one.” You said back to him. “Still I can see my neighbours getting uppity about us holding an orc, but outside of executing it outright, what choices do we have?”

“If you mean…” Sir Gravis started to say.

“Not lethargic, if the orc is sent into the camps, he can escape after the guards look the other direction. Not much difference in the physique compared to Thrall and only the Holy Light knows where he is.” You said to Sir Gravis and sighed. “Either way, I will go talk with Normand.”

“I have my knights standing guard in the dungeon for now.” Sir Gravis said back to you.

“Good, have the Royal Foot Guards take guard duty as well.” You said to him.

“Will do Prince Alric.” Your knight saluted you.

Everything seemed to be in order here. Having seen your new dungeon, you were quite sure that it could hold one orc in without him being able to escape. That wouldn’t be your worry.

…

“I’m back!” You shouted as you stepped inside your home.

You saw Aurvan’kal having been carried downstairs with the rest of your meagre belongings that had been left to Tarren Mill, but you didn’t see Malevus or anyone else either downstairs. Hearing footsteps from upstairs, Normand left his office and looked down at you from the balcone.

“We need to talk about the orc.” He bluntly said to you.

“Yeah, but where is everyone?” You asked him as you made your way up the stairs.

“Malevus and Taretha are visiting her parents and Maura is in the town looking for fresh herbs for sale.” Normand said to you as you opened the door of your study and stepped in. “Not much has happened in the past few days, just…”

“The orc… please take a seat.” You said and sat down on your chair.

“We need to get rid of it, we can’t have the orc stay here longer than it is necessary to move it away.” Normand immediately told you his worries.

“I want to know what the orc knows before that was to happen.” You said back to him. “The orc acted like a mad man… mad orc, but didn’t fight like it. He must have had a reason to not fight to his death.”

1/2

>>6085885

“Yes, Sir Gravis spoke to me about that.” Normand said to you.

“I don’t want to argue against you, but the orc stays until we find someone we can speak orcish and we can properly interrogate him. I want to know what the orc knows.” You said to Normand.

“And I want the orc gone as soon as possible. Prisoner or not, an orc in Alterac under the care of a Perenolde. You know how this looks.” Normand said and sighed. “But you have made your decision already, so please argue your decision for me, there must be more to it than just whatever the orc might know.”


>The orc is not lethargic, if not properly secured and chained up, he could escape the moment he is thrown into one of their camps and the guards avert their eyes.
>Successfully capturing and keeping a hold on an orc is a political success. You have shown to others that you don’t allow orcs to move around freely in your lands.
>The orc must be a messenger between the orcs in Alterac Mountains and those still free in Arathi Highlands, like the Warsong Clan. If the orcs are on the move, that is something you need to know.
>The orc can fight and your men need training in how to fight against orcs. In a controlled environment, you can use the orc to train your soldiers.
>Other, write in.

>Parade the orc through Dawnholme, let everyone know that you captured it.
>Reveal the existence of the captured orc to the public, but keep it chained and secured in the dungeon.
>Keep the orc hidden in the dungeon, but don't clarify any rumours about it.
>What orc? There are no orcs in your dungeon.
>Other, write in

QM: Two votes

>>6085872

Welcome back anon!

>>6085888
>>Successfully capturing and keeping a hold on an orc is a political success. You have shown to others that you don’t allow orcs to move around freely in your lands.
>Reveal the existence of the captured orc to the public, but keep it chained and secured in the dungeon.

>>6085888
>The orc must be a messenger between the orcs in Alterac Mountains and those still free in Arathi Highlands, like the Warsong Clan. If the orcs are on the move, that is something you need to know.
>Interrogate first, then reveal the orc to the public and send him to Blackmoore. No, we don't give a shit if he escapes the next day. Wash our hands of the problem.

>>6086066
>>6085888
support

>>6086066
I mean that does seem like an us problem when Garrithos is trying to replace Blackmoore and loosing ANOTHER orc will look pretty bad. I suppose once the gnoll campaign is over and the threat of replacement mostly passed, yeah.

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>>6086156
Let's be real. Blackmoore was on his way out as a political player the moment he ceded Alric the charter and he knew it. The only conversation that can be currently had about Blackmoore's future is the amount of face he will retain when leaving the political scene. Either he gets violently ousted by Garithos and then falls down a flight of stairs repeatedly until his neck breaks, very unfortunate accident that (bear in mind it was Aliden that backed off, not Falconcrest and we had news from Kris Legace that Stromgarde is rapidly becoming a hotbed of Syndicate activity),or it happens in a duel with Garithos when he loses his nerve, or he has to settle for being Alric's vassal when he retakes Alterac city and at this point it is a matter of "when" and not "if", the writing is on the wall for anyone that cares to look. He is an incompetent has-been who is only capable of fucking and drinking at this point and most of Durnholde is being carried by Lengston AND he has Katrana's agent in his bedroom that can also arrange him an unfortunate accident should be become a liability. His position right now is more tenuous than Alric's. We no longer need Blackmoore, while he needs us and he isn't our only ally now either and the ideal outcome would be the outcome in which
>Blackrmoore disappears or is rendered ineffective
>Garithos disappears or is rendered ineffective
>Alliance takes further damage, to both manpower and their political prestige
>Alterac gets honour, prestige territory and resources
It is an outcome towards which we should be working and it doesn't matter how it comes about so long as we don't stain our hands with demon filth, because that NEVER ends well and I have it on good authority that the edict of Terenas will not be repealed in his lifetime (haha).

>>6086066
>>6085888
support


>>6086160
Thats true Blackmoore lost much, but he still believes he has his position secure mostly out of believing two things that are not entirely true : that Alric counts on him has an ally, the heroic Alteraci Prince, and that Taretha was spent well on Alric. Ultimately he will likely fall by his own hands either during the campaign or afterwards, i am not sure if he would be able to survive in the future after what will hit Durnholde arrives.


The major problem i see for me, is not really Garithos and Blackmoore, but how much can we manage to protect in case Thrall gives in the vengeance on the Durnholders (which like us a lot from the commoner to the nobles), and if not Thrall the orcs of the camps and the orcs that will come with Thrall for the rescue. Thrall and his people will fall upon the camps at a certain point of the Gnoll Campaign, and if they win Durnholde and Durnholders would be there in their reach.


If nothing else i think we should be able to win in the Gnoll campaign, Alric seems almost healed and to full strength again. That should help and if we can arrive in time south for defend Durnholde, then i think the charter could have more political strength.

Messenger and a set of what you have planned to do with the orc. Could I have a roll for tomorrow regarding the orc.


>1d10
>Best of three

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>6086562
>Interrogate and only reveal the orc once we got all we could out of it and are ready to ship him off to Blackmoore. There's no need to mistreat him, especially since he had been rather peaceful after having been defeated. Whether it is some clever ploy or something else remains to be seen.
>>6086458
I think we are more likely to win the gnoll campaign than not unless something outstandingly bad happens and throws everything into chaos. As for Thrall, there's reasons to believe the verbal dressing down Alric had given him and the high influence rolls we got on him will ensure that he doesn't do anything stupid. His goal is to rescue his people, if he wanted revenge, he already had plenty of opportunities to have it, he could have easily climbed into Blackmoore's keep and stabbed him to death in his sleep or preyed on Durnholde patrols, Drek'Thar most likely advised him to see past his immediate desires and work towards a better future. Remarkably similar he and Alric, in that regard.

Rolled 3 (1d10)

>>6086562
I'm now scared the orc is an assassin too

Rolled 6 (1d10)

>>6086562

“Why would the orc try to cross Strahnbrad Hills? An orc that isn’t lethargic, coming from the east and what is in the east?” You said to Normand and continued. “Only Clan that is still resisting is hidden somewhere there, the Warsongs led by Grom Hellscream. And what we have in Alterac Mountains somewhere up north, the remnants of the Blackrock Clan led by their demon-crazed chieftains. It is not hard to make the connection. If the orcs are talking with each other, that is something we should be worried about.”

You didn’t mention Frostwolves. The orc could easily be a messenger from Hellscream to Thrall as well.

“It could be that we just haven’t caught any other orcs who have been crossing the hills, after all we didn’t have a presence there for years. But now that we have, we have to act with the information we have.” You said and continued. “I want to know what the orc knows, if we could achieve that, we could maybe prevent whatever plans they have.”

“None of us speak Orcish.” Normand pointed out.

“I need to talk with Eligius, he might have something, but I’m not holding my hopes up.” You said and sighed. “But till we have someone who speaks Orcish, the orc needs to stay in my dungeon. And after we have learned what the orc knows, then we can wash our hands off him. Send him to Blackmoore and let him throw the orc into the camps. Maybe at that point lethargy has hit him?”

Normand nodded.

“There is logic in what you said.” He replied. “Alright.”

“So you see my point?”

“I do, I still don’t like having the orc here though.” Normand replied. “Now where can we find someone who speaks Orcish?”

“Dalaran?” You shrugged. “Or maybe someone else from somewhere else? I’m not sure if we should make noise about the orc until we have interrogated it, that includes telling about him to others. For our own protection and the protection of the orc. As wild as it might sound, what if the orc works for the Syndicate and is an assassin?”

“You don’t really believe that?”

“No, I don’t. My brother allying with the orcs? He wouldn’t make the same mistake Aiden did.” You waved the idea away and stretched your back. “I am going to change my clothes and then go see Eligius. If I’m not here when Malevus returns, can you ask her to carry my stuff into my room?”

“I can do that.” Normand said to you and stood up from his chair.

“We really didn’t need the orc to happen to us right now, but it is what it is.” You said.

“Wise words.”

“I wish that half of the time I wouldn’t need to be concerned about all these things, but…” You started to say. “Alright, can’t just stay here and talk. We have work to be done.”

1/3

>>6086924

>9


“Laughing Skull.” Eligius said to you.

Your warlock acting as your spymaster masquerading as your scribe stood in the middle of the dungeon behind a wooden table. The large domed room had several sturdy cell doors around it with now two of them having inhabitants. Pai the Assassin had stayed quiet since the last interactions with her and she had no idea of the orc in another cell. To make sure that the orc wouldn’t escape, the cell door had been reinforced with a pair of sturdy logs blocking it from being opened. It was like a small gate into a fortress.

“You mean the skull mask?” You asked him. Having changed your arming jacket and trousers to your usual set of white shirt and leather jacket, you felt more comfortable immediately.

“No, that is the name of the Clan.” Eligius said and opened a small book on the table. “Lady Nalice had a book regarding the Alliance Expedition through the Dark Portal. Before the portal was closed, there were messengers sent regularly through it. Laughing Skulls were one of the Clans that had stayed in Draenor and only had joined the war just before the expedition was launched.”

“You are saying that the orc is from a Clan that didn’t invade Azeroth originally?” You asked him.

“Yes, I would imagine that not that many Laughing Skulls exist in our world.” Eligius answered.

“Anything else? Did the book say anything else useful?”

“The orc didn’t have much with him. Just the clothes, plenty of bones, the mask and his weapons.” Eligius said to you and continued with a whisper as there were guards in the room. “I don’t sense anything being off either.”

“That is good news.” You replied and took the skull mask off the table. If Eligius didn’t sense Fel or anything else, neither did you, that would at least mean the orc not being a warlock.

Holding it in your hands, you turned it around a couple times before placing it in front of your head. Peering through the eye holes, you looked at Eligius for a second before putting the mask down. A laughing orc wearing a skull mask, no wonder his Clan was named Laughing Skull. Really original.

“Peculiar orc.” You mused aloud. “Do you know if anyone here speaks Orcish?”

“No, but I can ask around.” Eligius said to you. “Maybe Mr. Wiklish or one of his goblins?”

Why hadn't you thought about that before?

“Send a message to him and ask him to come here as fast as possible.” You told Eligius. “If he or one of his goblins knows Orcish, that would solve our problem here.”

“I will do that immediately.” Eligius answered. “Anything else Prince Alric?”

“We will continue the studies later today.” You said to him. “Can’t skip a day.”

“Of course.” Eligius replied and bowed before leaving the dungeon.

2/3

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>>6086925

Now then just to wait till Wiklish arrives or he sends a message that he can’t help you. Would be a bit strange for goblins not to know Orcish, after all some of them were allied during the Second War.

You looked at the skull mask. What a strange orc, though you only knew one orc, one that had grown up amongst humans. Taking a deep breath, you exhaled slowly. What was Thrall up to? Could the orcs be planning to liberate the Internment Camps now? What if they do it while the campaign against the gnolls is happening? You couldn’t know, at least not yet.


>Go through the orc’s belongings and then go talk with the orc. He doesn’t probably understand you, but maybe you can find a connection with him.
>Malevus, you should keep her waiting. You want to see her and you need to talk about yourself and Jandice to her.
>The three mages from Underbelly. You haven’t really talked with them since their arrival to Dawnholme as they have been campaigning. See how they have become accustomed to your service.
>Other, write in.

QM: The roll got you these tidbits of information and something not yet revealed.

>>6086926
>>Malevus, you should keep her waiting. You want to see her and you need to talk about yourself and Jandice to her.

>>6086926

"you should keep her waiting". No, it should read "you shouldn't keep her waiting." Amateur mistake!

>>6086926
>Malevus, you should keep her waiting. You want to see her and you need to talk about yourself and Jandice to her.
Ironic how the insult of Garithos became true over time. I suppose the sooner we get this over with the better. Yer a manwhore, Alric.

>>6086926
>The three mages from Underbelly. You haven’t really talked with them since their arrival to Dawnholme as they have been campaigning. See how they have become accustomed to your service.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

>>6086926
>The three mages from Underbelly. You haven’t really talked with them since their arrival to Dawnholme as they have been campaigning. See how they have become accustomed to your service

I wanna see what my money h

>>6086926
>>The three mages from Underbelly. You haven’t really talked with them since their arrival to Dawnholme as they have been campaigning. See how they have become accustomed to your service.
We can talk with Malevus later, lets see what the mages are up to because they might be doing a lot useful stuff against the gnolls.

>>6086934
I find Alric with his flaws interesting character. Having Jandice as his mistress is not full manwhore territory, that would be if Alric had bedded Monica, allowed Katrana to seduce him and tried to hit on Jaina more aggressively. That would be in the womaniser territory.

>>6087069
I do agree that Alric is a better character if flawed, but he already became an adrenaline junkie/thrillseeker due to years of intense duress and constant life versus death struggles. He doesn't really feel alive anymore unless he's going steel on steel against someone with his life on the line. Maybe QM is playing it up a little, but I don't think that's fel corruption alone and it has been mentioned more than once, as well that his propensity to delegate tasks to his subordinates has also grown. But I do not attempt to hide the fact that I'm greatly displeased with the direction the quest had taken due to haremshit. Of course I can hardly have the room to complain, since I wasn't there to roll against it. I am now.

>>6086926
>Go through the orc’s belongings and then go talk with the orc. He doesn’t probably understand you, but maybe you can find a connection with him.
Didn't the Laughing Skull clan ally with the Alliance Expedition in Warcraft 2?

>>6087084
That is true, they did have a temporary alliance of convenience.

>>6087070
>I'm greatly displeased with the direction the quest had taken due to haremshit

Anon, Alric is in a relationship with two women, and one of them has stated *very explicitly* that it's JUST a friendship with benefits. This hardly counts as haremshit.

As a veteran of certain quests that eventually devolved into haremshit and collapsed because of it (Fate/Paradox Reincarnator, Mobile Suit Gundam: Shadows of Zeon, etc), I can understand how you feel, but a nobleman having two lovers wasn't exactly rare IRL, and I trust Medivh to handle Alric's relationships well/not fuck it up TOO badly.

>>6087164
A nobleman takes concubines when it is beneficial for him, not spends time running around like a headless chicken bumping into random women on his path and "trying to make it work". None of the women Alric had taken as lovers, benefited him in any way, with the exception of satiating his sexual needs or needs for companionship, which ironically enough any other woman could have sufficed for. Jandice would get disowned if her parents were to find out and he could have gotten the magical training out of her without sleeping with her. Lordaeron would probably send their army to drag him before the king's family if his involvement with Calia was to be found out. His attempts at courtship had caused him nothing but heartache, stress and involvement in commitments that he had struggled and failed to uphold. And now we're also introducing turmoil into the heart of his squire.

>>6087179
>None of the women Alric had taken as lovers

Yeah, all THREE of them. Get your head out of your ass and shelve your autism for half a fucking second. Medivh has been dangling a new hot woman in front of us damn near every thread at this point, and out of all of them, Alric has only started a relationship with three of them (one of which he ENDED and another that barely counts) and has only fucked one of them. If anything, Alric has been doing a damn fine fucking job keeping his dick in his pants considering how many women are basically throwing themselves at him!

Furthermore, all of the points you've brought up (Terenas/Arthas gutting us like a fish if they find out about Alric and Calia, Jandice getting disowned, Malevus's internal struggle) have all been discussed IN DEPTH over the past few threads. Doomposting about it just makes you look like a gigantic fucking faggot who's both jumping at shadows and doesn't trust the DM.

>>6087205
Apparently it wasn't discussed enough, since Alric couldn't hold his first relationship going for longer than a year. Pointing out things that have transpired isn't "doomposting", but if it offends your sensibilities so, you can filter my posts.

>>6086926
>>The three mages from Underbelly. You haven’t really talked with them since their arrival to Dawnholme as they have been campaigning. See how they have become accustomed to your service.
uhmm bones bones

Pair of the Royal Foot Guards followed you as you made your way through Dawnholme. Your walking stick, which you used really for a show right now as you didn't need it to get around, made soft thuds and clicks depending if it hit the dirt or cobblestone. The locals, Alteracis, Stonemasons, those from Underbelly greeted you as you passed them. Briefly you stopped to exchange a word or two as you watched as the work on the town continued. A couple more yards of the sewer had been finished while you had been away, dozens of men were moving large stone slabs and using winches to lift them into places. The arched roof of the sewer was being built piece by piece.

But that wasn't what you were looking for, making your way through the town to the opposite end where there were a row of tents next to half-finished houses, you found what you wanted.

Larger tent, decorated with arcane symbols and having windchimes hanging from the strings that softly made their noises as wind blew through them. Without a warning, you pushed the door flap away and stepped right in.

"Prince Perenolde!" Jon Boyd replied as he saw you and stood up to bow. He was followed by both Luke Williams and Madam Judy Martin. Thank the Light you caught all three at the same time.

"You may sit." You replied to them. One of the two students of William's carried you a chair to sit on before both of them scurried away. They were young men, younger than you. "So how have you been?"

"We are doing fine, thank you for asking Prince Alric." Madam Martin said to you. The older lady was wearing her stupendously large hat even inside the tent. "How is your squire doing?"

"She is going to explode soon. She hasn't been able to spar or exercise for a while. Outside of that, she's doing well." You told her.

"That is good to hear. Tea?" Madam Martin asked.

"Yes please." Was your reply.

She quite literally conjured one extra tea cup to the table. A small puff of smoke and purple light and there it was. Then just fill it with hot already prepared tea.

"We didn't expect you to come see us." Jon Boyd said to you.

"I have been a bad Prince of yours, I am paying you three enough to recruit and arm dozens of soldiers and I don't even check on my investments." You told him as you took the tea cup. "Thank you. And the last time we really spoke, I was bedridden."

"You do look quite healthy right now." Boyd replied.

Jon Boyd the pyromancer wore his red and purple robes. Right arm was heavily bandaged and across his face were pockmarks from old burns, his right ear having completely burned off. Brown medium length hair had been pulled back and secured with a piece of string.

"Thank you Mr. Boyd. I hope the two of you got through the campaign without any issues?" You asked them.

Williams nodded to you. The bald man with a head full of crisscrossing scars was mute after orcs had taken his tongue and tortured him. He was an arcanist and a bodyguard.

1/2

>>6087605

"A lot of walking, but after the start things went really well." Boyd told you as he sipped his own cup of tea. "People were somewhat distancing themselves from us at first."

You had heard the same story from your officers. Unsurprisingly they had been a bit wary about what was going on, but soon the trust between them and your men had been formed. After that they performed well.

"But your officers and men are professionals. They understood our tasks and what we could achieve. In the end we had no issues working together." Boyd finished.

"That is good to hear, campaigns that end up being uneventful are good campaigns." You said to them. "Next one will be a quite different case then. I hired the two of you to counter the trolls and their regeneration, in a couple of weeks you will be fighting gnolls instead. Are you alright with it?"

"Of course, the target doesn't matter as long as we are paid and we get to cast our magic, right Luke?" Boyd said to you and turned to his compatriot.

Williams just nodded.

"The boys are too rowdy." Madam Martin shook her head.

They seemed to be in good spirits.

"Enthusiasm is a good thing to have, but be not mistaken, the gnolls are not a playing matter. Lord Uther's Expedition faced them before and I fought against a shaman of theirs with Lady Jaina Proudmoore. This time we are going to face even stronger opposition and they will throw everything they have at us." You said and warned them.

"Don't worry, we can handle ourselves." Boyd said to you. "But may I ask, how do you wish to employ us in the battle? We could start preparing for the tasks at hand."

Would it be too early to reveal that you have been studying magic? You could use Boyd and Williams as your personal back up within your retinue. Being able to give them instructions quickly could prove rather useful, especially if they could assist you in your own magic. But maybe their place was in the backlines, or having them counter gnoll magicks. Each of these ideas had their own benefits. Madam Martin's place was simple, she would stay back and help those who were wounded and use her own magic to support the battle that way. But Boyd and Williams, where would you deploy them?


>Frontline, directly supporting your fighting men and dealing as much damage as possible to gnolls.
>Fire support, quite literal fire support to blast the gnolls from distance.
>Backline, to counter potential gnoll magic and dispel their effects.
>Your retinue, prestigious position where they could help to support and protect you.
>Other, write in.

>Reveal that you study magic. The three mages should know it ahead of time so that they could support your magic with theirs.
>No, not yet. They haven't been employed for that long. Better to keep things under wraps.
>Other, write in.

>>6087606
>Your retinue, prestigious position where they could help to support and protect you.

It would be nice to watch the gnolls eat a fireball before we charge in with our boys (knights and royal guard)

>No, not yet. They haven't been employed for that long. Better to keep things under wraps.

Maybe after the campaign.

>>6087606
>>Fire support, quite literal fire support to blast the gnolls from distance.
>No, not yet. They haven't been employed for that long. Better to keep things under wraps.

>>6087673
Wont they sense Alric using magic when he brings them into battle supporting him?

>>6087606
>Fire support, quite literal fire support to blast the gnolls from distance.

>No, not yet. They haven't been employed for that long. Better to keep things under wraps.

It was better to not tell them anything about your magic training, at least not yet. For the same reason it was better to have them stationed in the back providing fire support and dealing damage from a far, can't have them sense anything Peculiar about you.

"I want you to be with my archers and crossbowmen. We will be fighting in forests so their firepower is somewhat halved, I want you to bolster them and support them as much as possible." You told them and continued. "I want quite literal fire support."

"I like what I am hearing." Boyd replied. "Williams can sling a couple bolts of arcane energy at them as well, right Luke?"

Williams just revealed his smile which was rather crooked thanks to his half-well healed jaw the orcs broke.

"It is then settled." You said and finished your cup of tea before standing up. The mages followed you immediately. "I am sorry for being busy and not being able to stay here for any longer, but I have things to do. But Madam Martin, can we talk outside?"

"Of course." She replied.

"Wonderful, I will see the two of you hopefully soon again." You said and watched them bow to you.

Leaving the tent, you stopped outside and waited for Martin to join you. Her comically large hat nearly got snatched by the tent when she exited it.

Then you told her about Mayor Fowley and his stomach issues and about your want to get them sorted out. Madam Martin seemed somewhat sceptical of the request, she wasn't a true healer, but you were her employer and she did know plants and herbs. She would at minimum try to see what was wrong with Mayor Fowley and his stomach and if the physicians had missed anything crucial. She would pack whatever she needed and travel to Tarren Mill tomorrow.

You thanked Madam Martin. If she could help the poor Mayor, it would help all of us a lot as he was a good friend and ally of yours. And those stomach problems of his must be quite annoying.

…

You had returned home and found the place still empty. Maura had returned, but there was no sight of Tari nor Malevus. The day slowly rolled into late afternoon when you went into your study and pondered what you should do next?

Well you need to talk with Malevus that is for sure. About you and Jandice being lovers, friends with benefits, sexfriends in sexfriendship. Many words to describe the two of you. And most importantly what does Malevus want, was she against it? She had told you that she didn't care as long as the two of you had fun, but was it the case anymore?

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>>6088148

Leaning back on your chair, you bit your fingernails. How would you approach this? By the Light you were bad at this sort of thing, it felt like you had multiple voices in your head giving contradicting guidance. Sure it seemed that ladies fell for you all the time, but not long ago you were denser than a rock and dumber than an ogre when it came to women. At least you had some self-restraint, you hadn't fallen dick first on every lady who showed a modicum of interest in you, and with Malevus you had promised the opposite of that. Be a good boyfriend and court her slowly, do a lot of fun things together and let things develop on their own.

Yesterday during the dinner you had told that to Jandice and she had pondered the right approach to this. Her promise to help you in courting Malevus was a well welcomed one and her many ideas could help you today.

Though her ideas for this exact moment of talking with Malevus about you and Jandice really came to two things. Either outright being serious and setting things straight, the ball was in your and in the hands of Malevus when it came to all of this. Or maybe you should do something fun and maybe something tender with Malevus before speaking things through. After all, you had several hours to spend together before you needed to go study magic with Eligius later this evening and night.

"Alric! We're home!" Tari shouted from downstairs.

Shit! They are here and you didn't have the time to think through everything. Damn it, think something quick, what will you do?


Approaching Malevus:
>Do something fun and/or tender before serious talks, write in
>Just talk with Malevus and get things out of the way

Malevus talks regarding Jandice:
>Write in

QM: Good news! You saved Fowley’s life, he has Crohn's disease that would have ended up "undiagnosed" and would have gotten a lot worse with time. This does close one alternative Tarren Mill direction though. I can reveal you that.

And I choose to be brave, Malevus relationship write ins! Maybe think of a fun date or activity or a place to have the talks after boyfriend and girlfriend business? Or will you just talk with her in your bedroom in private immediately? Taking also ideas what Alric would say to Malevus about Jandice. The next update will have for now the final Jandice/Malevus/Alric relationship vote, I am not going to ask about it for some time afterwards unless things really change so let's get this done.

>>6088152
I'm glad we ended up looking into Fowley's issues, I was suspecting he had gastritis or something of the sort. His life was pretty stressful.

>>6088152

I feel like the most important point we've got to hit with The Jandice Talk is that the relationship has no romantic element to it; Jandice is just a good friend and part-time mentor we fuck, while Malevus is the one we capital "L" Love, so if she wants us to stop plowing Jandice on the side, we should do as she asks.

>>6088152
>Just talk with Malevus and get things out of the way
AFTER that we do something romantic-fun once the non-fun stuff is out the way.

>>6088152
>>Just talk with Malevus and get things out of the way
I really dont have any ideas about how to talk about it, so ill leave it up to the rest of you.

>>6088152
>Just talk with Malevus and get things out of the way
Serious stuff first and then we can be all romantic. Go for cuddles and searching each others bodies, but pull a swerve at last second and instead go feed Epona carrots and brush her well. Leave Malevus all hot and bothered, but still spend quality time with her. I can see Alric being sneaky like that.

>>6088425
Agreed. Alric is attracted to Jandice, but that attraction is not fuzzy feelings inside or butterflies. We have told these things to Malevus before, but it would be good to repeat them. If she wants us to stop having sex with Jandice, then we should stop. But if she is fine as her as our lover, then we can continue, but only if Malevus is not there. That wouldnt be fair to fuck Jandice while Malevus is sleeping next door, and Im not sure if sharing the bed threeway is a good thing. That goes too far.

Jandice as our mistress/lover is acceptable to me, but Malevus should be the serious subject of our love and attention.

>>6088152
>>Just talk with Malevus and get things out of the way

Our relationship with Jandice, we have mostly done it for one reason. While she has also grown in a good friend and mentor, the agreement we made with Jandice was clear. Now ?


>You saved Fowley’s life, he has Crohn's disease that would have ended up "undiagnosed" and would have gotten a lot worse with time.

Thats very nice. The last thing we needed, is that he died. We can count on him and he sounds like a good man.

>>6088319
He must had it by a while, i remember he had some stomach problems before in other threads but not with a reaction like this.

Update is halfway done and finished. I will try to get it out as soon as possible tomorrow. Apologies for the wait.

Good pondering on Malevus though and yes Fowley's stomach issues have been going on for some time already, but they really started to flare up recently.

>>6088152
>Maybe think of a fun date or activity or a place to have the talks after boyfriend and girlfriend business?

Take-the-girlfriend-to-the-dungeon day, to show Pai what self-respect looks like and how Alric is a good boy.

You just need to conjure something together, that is what you need to do. Taking your jacket off and leaving the boots behind in the study, you opened the study door and stepped out.

“I was wondering where the two of you have been.” You said to Tari and Malevus who were both standing downstairs.

“We visited my parents as we didn’t know exactly when you would come home or how late it would be.” Tari said to you as you made your way down the stairs.

“I tried to hurry and even then I have already gotten plenty done.” You said and shrugged to her before giving her a slight hug. “How are you feeling?”

“Tired, as always.” She replied to you. Her long blue dress did little to hide her baby bump.

“How about you Malevus?” You asked her and gave her a slight hug as well.

“Feeling bored, Raleigh still hasn’t given me permission to train…” Malevus sighed.

“After the campaign, maybe then your leg wound has healed enough.” You said to her and continued. “Can we talk though? I have something we need to talk about.”

“Don’t let me keep you here, I will go bother Maura.” Tari said to you and Malevus.

“Thanks Tari. Shall we go Malevus?” You said.

“Yeah, what do you have in mind?” Malevus asked. “About our new guest in the dungeon?”

“That as well.” You said to her and walked back upstairs with her in tow. “Did you heal the orc?”

“I did, the wound wasn’t that bad and the orc didn’t resist. The moment he saw the thread and needle, I think he understood my intent.” Malevus said to you as she followed you to your bedroom.

“Good, I want to know what the orc knows. There must be a reason why it was in the hills.” You said to her, placing the black noise device on the table and closing the bedroom door.

You then wrapped your arms around her in an embrace to which she replied in kind.

“I did miss you Alric.” Malevus said to you.

“I missed you too…” You said to her and released the embrace to hold her hands. “But we need to talk.”

“Talk about what?” Malevus asked. Her red hair was just brushed and let go, even plain like this, she was so beautiful and holding her hands made a couple butterflies appear in your stomach.

Guiding her to your bed, you sat down next to her. You could see the visible confusion in her eyes.

“What is it Alric?” Malevus asked.

“It is about Jandice…” You started and allowed your words to register. Malevus opened her mouth slightly as she thought about the implication for a few seconds. “I told her about us, she knows. And… I spent the last night with her.”

1/3

>>6089651

A slight blush appeared on her cheeks as Malevus listened to what you were saying.

“You asked me to be truthful and so I will be.” You said to her. “And due to that we need to talk, I want to know where we are with all of this.”

Malevus looked at you for a moment before wiggling closer to you. Placing one arm around your back, she leaned on your side, placing her head on your shoulder.

“You like her, you have told me so before.” Malevus said to you with a quiet voice. “But is she happy?”

“She knows that she has ‘lost the race’ so to speak, but is more than fine with what we have now.” You said to Malevus.

“But is she truly happy?” Malevus asked again. “And are you happy with her?”

“I think she is. She knows she can’t be what would be expected of her, she can’t marry me or provide me with an heir. Yet, she is fine with that, she loves me regardless.” You told Malevus and continued. “And I can’t lie to you that I don’t feel attracted to her, because this morning I felt like I wanted to just spend the whole day with her, casually lounging together and doing sweet tender things to each other.”

Malevus blushed hard when you said that.

“But you came home…” She said to you.

“Yes, because as much as I like her and feel attracted to her beauty and who she is as a person, that attraction is different to what I am feeling towards you.” You said and continued. “There are no butterflies in my stomach nor that warmth and fuzzy feeling across my body that I have with you.”

“Jandice is my friend, my mentor in magic, she has taught me a lot. She is a businesswoman and noblewoman fighting with similar problems as I do. We share a lot on that front, but then on top of that we are lovers. We have agreed to see each other if we are in the same place at the same time, but not more than that.” You told Malevus, it was something she already knew.

“She is your mistress.” Malevus said to you as she lifted her head off your shoulder and looked away for a moment. “And both of you are happy.”

Malevus let go of you and sat there looking at the opposite wall.

“I told you that night that I wouldn’t care about you and Jandice as long as it makes you and her happy.” Malevus said to you and turned to look back at you. “I still think so…”

“So you…” You started to say.

2/3

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>>6089653

“In Quel’thalas it is not uncommon for the wealthy or for the nobles to have mistresses or side pieces, be they public or not. Reasoning being that arranged marriages are rarely ones with love or romance. I was told that too, if the things don’t work with my proposed husband, just acquire someone else to warm your bed and find the things you are lacking… I was told that by my mother...” Malevus told you and continued. “Because of you Alric, I am not going to need a side piece to be happy or to have love and romance… but I cannot tell you to stop if that makes you and her unhappy. It wouldn’t be right of me to deny you or her that because it is clear that you care for her and she cares for you and because behind the Lady Jandice Barov she presents to others around her is a good person worth taking care of and to be loved.”

“Malevus…” You started to say, but she silenced you with a finger to your lips.

“Just promise me one thing, if I am around and with you, then don’t spend the night with her.” Malevus said to you and looked into your eyes before whispering. “Because I want to be the one spending those nights with you…”


>Be fully loyal to Malevus, you aren’t going to meet with Jandice anymore with the idea of her being your mistress or lover. Last night was the last time with anyone else other than Malevus. Jandice will understand and neither you or her will be unhappy.
>Accept the offered promise. You won’t be with Jandice if Malevus is with you and around. There’s probably even less opportunities for you to meet Jandice as lovers. Malevus is more than kind in accepting Jandice as your mistress.
>You cannot keep that promise, because you don’t want to put aside something that brings you and Jandice so much joy and happiness. It would be wrong for both of you. Malevus will understand this.
>Other, write in

QM: Final Jandice as your mistress/lover vote for a long time, unless something very drastic happens.

>>6089657
>Accept the offered promise. You won’t be with Jandice if Malevus is with you and around. There’s probably even less opportunities for you to meet Jandice as lovers. Malevus is more than kind in accepting Jandice as your mistress.
Worst comes to it, he can just have them both simultaneously, Malveus would probably like it because of those damn books.

>>6089657
Mah elf waifu
>Be fully loyal to Malevus, you aren’t going to meet with Jandice anymore with the idea of her being your mistress or lover. Last night was the last time with anyone else other than Malevus. Jandice will understand and neither you or her will be unhappy.

>>6089657
>>Be fully loyal to Malevus, you aren’t going to meet with Jandice anymore with the idea of her being your mistress or lover. Last night was the last time with anyone else other than Malevus. Jandice will understand and neither you or her will be unhappy.

>>6089657
>>Be fully loyal to Malevus, you aren’t going to meet with Jandice anymore with the idea of her being your mistress or lover. Last night was the last time with anyone else other than Malevus. Jandice will understand and neither you or her will be unhappy.

Malevus withdrew her finger off your lips, dragging it down off your chin.

“You said because of me you aren’t going to need a side piece to be happy or to have love and romance…” You started to say to her before continuing after a couple of seconds. “You said you want to be the one spending those nights with me…”

Smiling, you leaned closer until you felt her warm breath on your lips.

“I will promise you what you asked and I will give you more…” You said and kissed her.

Malevus responded in kind as her hands found your chest, gripping your shirt for support. Your lips found each other again and again, until you pulled yourself back a bit.

She was blushing and her ears were drooping, her breathing had turned heavier as she looked into your eyes.

“No one else, but you Malevus.” You said to her with a whisper and leaned in for another kiss. Your hand wandered down her side and took hold of her thigh as if you prepared to push her down on your bed, followed by whatever her imagination was most likely conjuring together right now.

Malevus closed her eyes and waited with bated breath, but the kiss didn’t happen nor did you make your move on her. Instead you took hold of her hands and pulled her up.

“Let’s go feed carrots to Epona.” You said to her, completely nonchalantly and fully disregarding the romantic tension between you and her.

“W-w-what?” Malevus replied as she opened her eyes and didn’t really recognise what was going to happen.

“She really likes carrots you know, then we can brush her mane and tail together.” You said to her.

“B-but didn’t we…” She started to say.

“That can wait, besides you have said that you want to take things slowly and experience it all.” You said to her and led her out of the bedroom.

“Y-you meanie…” Malevus lamented.

“Now just to put on my boots and Epona is going to be the prettiest horse in the whole Alterac!” You said with a laugh. “Let’s go my dear squire, let’s not keep her waiting!”

…

“You seem happy Prince Alric.” Eligius said to you and asked. “Did something happen?”

“Nothing specific really, I just brushed my horse before coming here.” You said to him and shrugged.

Tari had given you and Malevus curious looks as you happily had walked down the stairs with still blushing and embarrassed Malevus following you. She had no idea what had just happened or what you had spoken about with Malevus and how you had pulled the swerve on your poor squire. It was maybe a bit mean thing to do, but you couldn’t resist the temptation and the moment to not do it.

So just a moment after telling Malevus that you wouldn’t be seeing Jandice anymore as lovers, you had dragged her to the stables to brush your horse. If she really liked you, sometimes she would just have to take a deep breath and bear with you.

“Alright… this book is quite interesting.” Eligius said and switched the subject.

1/2

>>6090512

“Yeah, Lady Jandice gave it to me. We thought that curses and understanding them could help us if we were to bump into orc warlocks or something else of that type.” You said to Eligius. “Though we don’t exactly have the time to learn something new properly.”

“And we are supposed to follow the curriculum.” Eligius reminded you and closed the book. “We can look into the curses, but in my opinion you are a bit too early for learning about them.”

You shrugged at that answer. You didn’t exactly have time to learn about new types of magic before the campaign in Durnholde happens. Maybe if you were to throw the curriculum into a ditch and spend all of your available magic studying time to learn something new, you could maybe achieve something. But you weren’t completely sure, maybe it was worth a try?

Two weeks or so? Would it be enough?


>Stay with the curriculum as provided by Lady Nalice. It is a bit tedious, but she is your teacher. She knows what is best for you. You need to learn how to detect magic.
>Concentrate on fire magic, try to deepen your knowledge and try to learn a new trick.
>Study the curses, this would be a completely new endeavour to you and you aren’t sure how long it would take for you to learn something new.
>Ask Eligius to teach you about Fel and the arts of warlocks. Fel can be a strong tool in your arsenal if you learn how to control and use it properly.
>Other, write in

If choosing anything else other than the curriculum:
>Full concentration on the new subject. The curriculum can wait till later. You need to learn the new subject fast.
>Half of the time on the new subject and the other half on curriculum.
>Spend maybe a quarter on the new subject, that should give you a base level understanding, but not knowledge how to cast the new magic.

QM: End of Jandice and Alric as lovers, you will have to tell her that in the future or with a letter. And here is a quick decision on how to spend the time before the campaign when it comes to magic. Do you want to rush something new ready for the campaign, or maybe you should keep going as is.

>>6090514
>Stay with the curriculum as provided by Lady Nalice. It is a bit tedious, but she is your teacher. She knows what is best for you. You need to learn how to detect magic.
We have already voted in favor of keeping our mages far out back as fire support, so if we will need to detect something that is in the immediate vicinity, this will be a necessity. It could make the difference between triggering some sort of a fireball trap and losing ten soldiers and suffering grievous wounds or not. Alric is already immensely capable as an attack type fire mage compared to the average non-gifted.

>>6090514
>>Stay with the curriculum as provided by Lady Nalice. It is a bit tedious, but she is your teacher. She knows what is best for you. You need to learn how to detect magic.
Kinda pointless to learn other subjects if Alric cant even sense magic properly yet.

>>6090514

As basic as it sounds probably do want to know how to sense magic so he can hunt down the shamans. That said, so very tempted for a nice fire magic like a smokescreen, controlling or putting out a fire. Breathing fire lol. Good ol heat metal so someone has to drop their weapon or cook in their armor. Or a dragon curse, but thats entirely new territory.

>>6090514
>Stay with the curriculum as provided by Lady Nalice. It is a bit tedious, but she is your teacher. She knows what is best for you. You need to learn how to detect magic.

Oh it's detect magic, hell yeah. We need this for more sleuthing antics.

Also I'm happy with the waifu route that anons have chosen, well done lads.

"Ehh, better not start anything new. Let's just concentrate on the curriculum." You said to Eligius. "We don't really have the time for anything else and I really want to get my head around sensing magic."

"Good choice Prince Alric." Eligius said and nodded to you.

"How can something so mundane be so bloody difficult? I can set things on fire, yet this evades me. Frustrating really." You said and stood up from the chair you were sitting. "Just let's go to the cellar and continue where we left off the last time."

Great, it would be more of trying to sense glowing rocks hidden underneath some cups. Eligius meanwhile seemed to enjoy this a bit, seeing you struggle with such an easy task for him.

Oh well, better get to work.

…

Days passed.

During the evenings your magic training continued and you had made some progress. Sensing the flow of Arcane energies in the air wasn't an easy task, but day after day you learned a bit more. It still wasn't easy for you, while Eligius had no issues with it.

And while the evenings were spent studying magic, the days were full of other activities. Handling the supplies for your army, getting the men ready and watching them spar and march around in formations. Drill after drill to get them ready.

But you also found time for music and languages. Slowly more Elvish words got stuck in your mind and Draconic was wrestled into submission. Sir Cyrus was really helpful with the latter as you could exchange a word or two with him here and there. But the former? That was way more enjoyable.

While Malevus was busy and away, you slipped small letters filled with sweet words and encouragement in Elvish under her pillow. The careful touches and looks, words and compliments through the day, the tender good night's kisses and the warm fuzzy feeling both of you got from just cuddling after your music sessions. Both of you enjoyed this a lot, it was something you wanted. You wanted to be with her and all these small things through the day just made the wait for the simple good night's kisses more sweeter.

Ever since your short talk with her, things had felt different. Both Malevus and you knew that a step had been taken forward. This was more serious now than before the talk and even if your swerve to go feed carrots to Epona had confused Malevus at first and stopped whatever action which could have followed, she had thanked you a couple days later. You were right, she had asked you to take things slowly. Rushing ahead would do no good to you or her.

Now though with a week remaining till you march to Durnholde, it was time to finish some things when it comes to your military. Promotions as planned, what troops are you actually going to take with you and apparently Eligius had gotten something new from his spies. You wondered what it was?

1/1

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>>6090744

Choose one:
>Promotion ceremony, your troops should all be watching and present.
>Troop planning for the campaign, now is the time to shuffle them around and choose what you will take to Durnholde.
>Eligius and his intelligence. What has he learned?

QM: What do you tackle first? And I hope I did Malevus and Alric some justice in the last few updates. What sort of stuff would you like to see from their daily and near daily stuff?

>>6090748
>Eligius and his intelligence. What has he learned?
This this this

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>>6090748
>Eligius and his intelligence. What has he learned?
We gotta handle this orc. Didn't we have Wilkish on the case? The sooner we learn what is his deal, the more finely we can hone our future plans. Knowing where your enemies are not, can be just as important as knowing where they are.

On a side note, I'd like to see if we can do more to facilitate further control over the Stonemaons, it has become kind of ridiculous now, at this point if they were to stage a revolt, their people would outnumber the alteracis. Isn't Dawnholme now a Stonemason majority? Their secret meetings and the cultural schism can present a major threat, especially if the Syndicate will attempt to stoke the fires. Oh and the prisoner rehabilitation, we need to institute a working plan in regards to gradually releasing those that we had imprisoned as a result of our counter-Syndicate operations and their reintegration into society. Pai and Otto had both raised valid concerns in the past - people need something to work towards and few things are as sweet as the promise of freedom and if we can show the people that it is better to deal with us than with our brother or Falconcrest, we could erode their power passively with great effectiveness, perhaps to the point that it could cause them to make a fatal error.

>>6089657
>Accept the offered promise. You won’t be with Jandice if Malevus is with you and around. There’s probably even less opportunities for you to meet Jandice as lovers. Malevus is more than kind in accepting Jandice as your mistress.

We're going to be a king bois. We gonna have a mistress or two.

>>6090748
>>Eligius and his intelligence. What has he learned?

>>6090911

A couple updates too late! Alric chose to stay loyal.